The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which cleared Congress in the fall, was signed into law by President Donald Trump. This action allows schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and 2% fat milk, overturning Obama-era limits that since 2012 required schools to offer only skim and low-fat products.
Key Provisions
The new law permits schools to serve whole and 2% fat milk. It also allows for nondairy milk options that meet nutritional standards and requires schools to offer such alternatives if children provide a note from their parents indicating a dietary restriction. This provision extends beyond previous requirements for a doctor's note.
Context and Impact
The signing of the bill follows the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which emphasize consumption of full-fat dairy products. The change could take effect as soon as the upcoming fall, though some schools may require more time to assess demand and adjust supply chains. The new rules will affect approximately 30 million students enrolled in the National School Lunch Program.
The law also exempts milk fat from being considered as part of federal requirements that average saturated fats make up less than 10% of calories in school meals.
Expert Perspectives
Advocates for the change, including the dairy industry, have argued that whole milk is a nutritious food. Some studies suggest that children who consume whole milk may be less likely to develop obesity than those who drink lower-fat options. Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian of Tufts University stated that there is "no meaningful benefit" in choosing low-fat over high-fat dairy, noting that saturated fat in dairy has not been linked to adverse health outcomes. Conversely, research following the Obama-era law indicated a slowed rise in obesity among U.S. children, including teenagers.