The foundation for the Arizona Nutrition Standards is based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Federal Child Nutrition Program regulations. The Arizona Nutrition Standards will apply to all foods and beverages sold in vending machines, snack bars, a la carte, fundraisers, and school events during the normal school day. The standards are not applicable to classroom parties.

The foundation for the Arizona Nutrition Standards is based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the United State Department of Agriculture's Federal Child Nutrition Program regulations. In addition to federal guidelines, several test pilots and research programs conducted throughout the country contributed to the development of the nutrition standards. The Arizona Nutrition Standards will apply to all foods and beverages sold in vending machines, snack bars, a la carte, fundraisers, and school events during the normal school day. The standards are not applicable to classroom parties.