What's Happening?
President Donald Trump has signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 into law, allowing schools to serve whole and 2% milk. This legislation, introduced in January and passed by the Senate in November, was finalized by the House last month. The
signing ceremony included Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and key lawmakers such as House Ag Committee Chairman Glenn 'GT' Thompson and Senator Roger Marshall. The law revises USDA's National School Lunch Program requirements, permitting schools to offer whole and reduced-fat milk alongside low-fat or fat-free options. Dairy industry leaders, including the National Milk Producers Federation, have expressed enthusiasm for the law, highlighting its potential to expand market access for dairy farmers.
Why It's Important?
The legislation marks a significant shift in school nutrition policy, potentially increasing demand for whole and 2% milk, which could benefit dairy farmers facing economic challenges. By expanding milk options in schools, the law supports dairy farmers by opening new markets and aligns with recent dietary guidelines that emphasize dairy's nutritional value. This move is seen as a win for the dairy industry, which has been advocating for such changes since federal nutrition rules removed whole milk from school programs in 2012. The law also reflects a broader trend of revisiting and revising school nutrition standards to better align with consumer preferences and nutritional science.
What's Next?
As the law is implemented, schools will need to adjust their meal programs to include the newly permitted milk options. Dairy cooperatives and industry groups have pledged to assist schools and the USDA in this transition. The success of this policy could lead to further legislative efforts to support the dairy industry and other agricultural sectors. Additionally, the impact on children's health and nutrition will be closely monitored, potentially influencing future dietary guidelines and school nutrition policies.
