Dairy companies and processors are pledging to deliver milk and its nutrients to U.S. students while reducing calories and added sugars.
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced the establishment of the Healthy School Milk Commitment, which aims to “provide healthy, nutritious school milk options with no more than 10 grams of added sugar per 8 fluid ounce serving,” per USDA dietary guidelines.
The initiative will begin with the 2025-26 school. Thirty-seven school milk processors representing more than 90% of the school milk volume in the U.S. are committed to the plan. According to IDFA, flavored milk products such as school chocolate milk contain about 8.2 grams of added sugar per serving.
“Milk and dairy products are an essential element of the school nutrition program,” said Ernie Birchmeier, industry relations specialist for Michigan Farm Bureau.
“It has been proven time and time again that milk helps build strong bones and provides essential nutrients to consumers, both young and old alike. In many instances, school nutrition programs are the only opportunity for some students to have access to milk and dairy products on a regular basis. Continuation of this program is critically important for the health of our young people.”
IDFA said milk is the No. 1 source of protein in the diets of children ages 2 to 11, and flavored milk options — chocolate, vanilla and strawberry — are the most consumed beverages within the school meals program. The Healthy School Milk Commitment aims to assure parents and students that healthy milk options with less added sugar will remain on school meal menus for years to come.
The commitment covers milk provided to children in school in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
“The Healthy School Milk Commitment goes above and beyond federal nutrition guidelines, ensuring that all children in grades K-12 continue to have access to the milk they enjoy with fewer calories and less added sugar,” said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., IDFA president and CEO.
Source: michiganfarmnews.com
Photo Credit: istock-cagkansayin
Categories: Michigan, Livestock, Dairy Cattle