(1) An early learning provider preparing or serving food must comply with the current department of health Washington State Food and Beverage Workers' Manual and supervise services that prepare or deliver food to the early learning program.

(2) Snacks and meals must be prepared and served by an early learning provider who possesses a valid and current food worker card pursuant to WAC 110-300-0106(13).

(3) An early learning provider must:

(a) Supply durable and developmentally appropriate individual eating and drinking equipment, or developmentally appropriate single use disposable items;

(b) Clean and sanitize eating and drinking equipment after each use. Water cups or bottles must be cleaned and sanitized daily if designated for a single child;

(c) Ensure plastic eating and drinking equipment does not contain BPA (a chemical used in hard plastic bottles and as a protective lining in food and beverage cans) or have cracks or chips;

(d) Use gloves, utensils, or tongs to serve food;

(e) Serve meals or snacks on plates, dishware, containers, trays, or napkins or paper towels, if appropriate. Food should not be served directly on the eating surface; and

(f) Be respectful of each child's cultural food practices.

(4) An early learning provider must:

(a) Serve each child individually or serve family style dining, allowing each child the opportunity to practice skills such as passing shared serving bowls and serving themselves; and

(b) Sit with children during meals.

PDFWAC 110-300-0195

Food service, equipment, and practices.