To disaster response, President Trump has just signed a major new bill. This legislation is allowing whole milk back into school cafeterias, making good on a 2012 Obama administration decision to remove it. This policy limited the types of milk allowed in the National School Lunch Program to only skim and low-fat varieties. During its short life, the program’s stated intent was to combat childhood obesity.
The new law is in tune with emerging federal dietary guidelines which encourage us to consume full fat dairy products. This is no small change since most children get the bulk of their daily nutrition from meals served at schools. Rebringing back whole milk is an easy and nutrient-dense way to give children what they need. With a monetary incentive, we might inspire more kids to make milk a part of their story.
Dr. Nate Wood, an assistant professor of medicine at Yale School of Medicine, said the recommendation is a departure from previous guidance. He noted that low-fat and nonfat milk had been thoroughly marketed to adults and most children. On the plus side, he acknowledged that whole milk provides some important nutrients. Yet he expressed worries about the capacity of whole milk to contribute nutrient saturated fat and extra calories.
“If kids are currently not drinking any milk at school because only low-fat and nonfat options are offered, but they would drink whole milk, then I think it would be a good thing to give them that option.” – Dr. Nate Wood
Dr. Wood highlighted the importance of keeping plain unflavored milk in schools. Sweetened and flavored milks are not healthful choices as they contain added sugars, he explained. He’s adamant even about the fact that we shouldn’t make these options available in the first place. This covers nonfat, low-fat, and whole types.
Maya Feller, registered dietitian and fierce proponent of the legislation. She has worked with Wellness in the Schools, a nonprofit that helps public school students learn healthy eating habits. Feller placed emphasis on the importance of really offering children the chance to try an array of healthy foods.
“It’s good for children to have options, and for many, this may increase the likelihood that they will drink milk, which is a nutrient-dense option.” – Maya Feller
Feller stressed the nutritional value of simple, full-fat dairy. It’s the number one source of three key nutrients — calcium, vitamin A and vitamin D — in our diet, and a leading source of potassium. She’s been a loud voice advocating for the reintroduction of whole milk in schools. At the same time, she advocates for more whole food choices, including an increased variety of veggies, fruits and whole grains.
While the new legislation does have its limitations, it represents a major shift in the way our schools treat nutrition and dietary options for their students. Our schools have proven their dedication to ensuring the meals they provide are good for children’s health and well-being. Allowing them to include whole milk on their menus can increase nutrition and consumption rates among these students.
