Whole milk returns to school cafeterias under new law

President Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act to allow whole milk options in the National School Lunch Program, and the Department of Agriculture said it will update Child Nutrition Programs to implement the change.

President Trump signed the bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act to allow whole milk in school cafeterias. The law reverses a 2012 policy that limited National School Lunch Program milk to low-fat and skim options. The change follows federal dietary guidance from the administration that recommends full-fat dairy. The Department of Agriculture said it will rewrite Child Nutrition Programs and begin implementing the policy with school nutrition officials. Key facts: - The law adds whole milk as an option under the National School Lunch Program while requiring schools to also offer 2%, 1% and lactose-free milk. - The measure permits nondairy options that meet nutrition standards when parents provide a note of dietary restrictions. - Registered dietitian Maya Feller said plain full-fat dairy provides multiple nutrients, including calcium, vitamin A, vitamin D and potassium, and that fat can help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. - Feller also said the change is more meaningful if paired with broader meal offerings of minimally processed, nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. - Dr. Nate Wood noted whole milk contains nutrients but expressed concern about added saturated fat and calories; he said there is not enough data to definitively link whole milk to childhood obesity. - Wood added that sweetened and flavored milks contain added sugars and are not health-promoting options regardless of fat content. Summary: The law restores whole milk as a permitted choice in school meals and may influence what students choose to drink. The USDA has announced it will update program rules and work with school nutrition officials to implement the change. Experts cited in coverage describe nutritional benefits of full-fat dairy while also noting concerns about saturated fat and calories.