USDA Restores Whole Milk in US Schools

The U.S. dairy industry received a major boost after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officially implemented the “Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act,” restoring whole milk and 2% milk options in federal Child Nutrition Programs for children and adults aged 2 years and above.

Announced by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on May 8, 2026, the final rule gives schools and child nutrition providers greater flexibility to offer nutrient-rich dairy products that align with updated nutrition science and consumer demand. The legislation was signed into law by President Donald Trump on January 14, 2026, marking the return of whole milk to U.S. school cafeterias after more than a decade.

The USDA stated that whole milk provides essential nutrients including protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamins A, D and B12. The department also highlighted that full-fat dairy plays an important role in supporting energy needs and brain development in young children.

The move reverses restrictions introduced under earlier school meal standards that had limited milk choices primarily to low-fat and fat-free varieties since 2012. Along with whole and 2% milk, schools can now offer flavored, lactose-free, organic and conventional milk varieties under the updated framework.

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) welcomed the decision, calling it a “major victory” for children’s nutrition and common-sense school meal policy. Dairy industry groups believe the change will strengthen milk consumption in schools while creating fresh demand opportunities for American dairy farmers and processors. (usda.gov)

USDA added that it will continue updating school meal standards in line with the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans while promoting greater access to wholesome and locally sourced foods in schools.

Source: Dairynews7x7 10 May, 2026 Read full article here

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