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Could Whole Milk Be Making a Comeback in School Cafeterias?
The Senate Agriculture Committee recently held a hearing on the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, a bill that could change what’s in those little milk cartons. Currently, schools participating in the National School Lunch Program can only offer fat-free or low-fat milk, flavored or unflavored. This bill aims to give schools the option of serving whole, reduced-fat (2%), low-fat, and fat-free milk, both flavored and unflavored.
This proposed change comes after over a decade of whole and 2% milk being absent from school meals due to concerns about saturated fat and calories. However, experts now suggest that the science has evolved.
Testifying before the committee, pediatric nutritionist Dr. Keith T.
Ayoob argued that current research no longer supports the earlier restrictions. He cited a systematic review of studies showing no link between dairy consumption, including whole and 2% milk, and cardiometabolic risk in children aged 2 to 18.
Dr. Ayoob emphasized that nutritional science is constantly evolving and recommendations should adapt accordingly.
He also noted there’s no correlation between milk and obesity, even suggesting an inverse relationship.
The International Dairy Foods Association also supports expanding milk options. Matt Herrick, executive vice president and chief impact officer, pointed out milk’s nutritional value, highlighting its essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. He noted that most families already purchase whole or 2% milk, making it a familiar choice for kids.
The USDA currently recommends dairy milk for children over two, but the specifics of those recommendations could change if this bill passes. MAHA Action, an organization focused on public health policy reform, has voiced support for the act, stating that whole milk is the healthiest option for children due to its healthy fats. The bill’s potential impact on school menus remains to be seen as it moves through the legislative process.