Whole Milk Nears Reintroduction in US School Lunch Programs
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) has expressed strong optimism regarding the legislative initiative to bring whole milk back into the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). According to NMPF, this policy change is "excruciatingly close" to being enacted into law, representing a significant victory for the dairy industry.
Historically, federal dietary guidelines have limited school milk options to low-fat and skim varieties. The reintroduction of whole milk is expected to provide a stable market for full-fat dairy products, benefiting both producers and manufacturers. This move is also in response to growing acceptance of the nutritional benefits of whole milk, which contains essential vitamins and fatty acids.
School feeding programs are one of the largest buyers of fluid milk, and their ability to purchase whole milk would boost demand for raw milk, potentially stabilizing farm-gate prices. The NMPF sees this change as a necessary step to support farm income and market confidence in the dairy community.
Legislators advocating for this change highlight the nutritional value of whole milk for children, aiming to address declining milk consumption and provide more nutrient-dense options in schools. Analysts note that the legislative process is nearly complete, and the provision is expected to be included in upcoming agricultural or appropriations bills.
This policy shift underscores the influence of coordinated industry advocacy in reversing long-standing nutritional guidelines, with implications for future dietary recommendations and the global perception of full-fat dairy products.
