“The Office of Food and Nutrition (FNS) does NOT purchase its ground beef from USDA but rather from the J.T.M. Food Group.  In a statement from Brian Hofmeier, Senior Director of Schools Sales for the J.T.M. Food Group, he states “J.T.M does not use ammonium hydroxide in our process and we do not purchase material from any suppliers that use ammonium hydroxide in their process.”   FNS works closely with all food suppliers to ensure the highest quality of products are served to our students.  We understand the importance of the service we provide. “