Through the Food Distribution Program (FDP), the USDA makes a variety of donated foods (referred to as commodities) available to institutions and programs that provide nutritional services to eligible persons. These institutions and programs include the National School Lunch Program, the Child and Adult Care Food Program, and the Summer Food Service Program. The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) provides commodities to soup kitchens and food banks. Other charitable institutions also occasionally receive food.

Depending on market conditions, as many as 40 to 60 different commodities may be supplied to participants during the year. The commodities may be frozen, canned, fresh, or dry and include meats, poultry, vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products.

Not all commodities are available in every setting. In some situations, commodities are offered in addition to cash assistance for meal services. The commodities are acquired through three congressionally authorized agricultural support programs: price support, surplus removal, and the National School Lunch Program.

Participating agencies enter into an annual agreement to receive commodities. The commodities may be earned according to a rate per meal served or based on population and poverty/unemployment statistics, depending on the particular program. In addition, there are some bonus commodities which can be ordered on an as-needed basis.