U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a final rule implementing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, restoring whole and reduced fat (2%) milk options in federal Child Nutrition Programs for children and adults ages 2 and older.
The rule advances efforts for improving childhood nutrition and supporting America’s dairy farmers by ensuring schools and child nutrition providers can offer students nutrient-dense dairy options that align with the latest nutrition science and consumer preference.
“For years, outdated federal rules kept nutritious whole milk off school menus, despite growing evidence showing the importance of healthy fats and nutrient- dense foods for child development. USDA is proud to implement the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and give schools the flexibility to serve real, wholesome milk options that help children grow, learn, and thrive,” said Rollins.
Whole milk and other dairy products provide essential nutrients including protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamins A, D, and B12. Whole milk is especially important for young children aged 1 to 10 to support energy needs and brain development.
USDA is also continuing the multi-year process to update school meal standards based on the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations.
The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act was signed into law in January.