Dairy farmers are advocating to members of Congress for expanded milk options in school cafeterias, arguing that offering whole milk, reduced-fat options, and flavored varieties delivers better outcomes for students.
A schoolteacher and dairy farmer who operates near Union Bridge, MD, and belongs to Maola Local Dairies expressed support for increased variety during the most recent Dairy Defined podcast episode that was published today. Lauren Schwartzbeck stated: “I think it’s awesome that students and kids have a choice. Giving them more choices just gets more milk out there for them, and the benefits that it has, and the flavor that it has that kids enjoy. I think by giving them those choices and by providing that product to them, that can only do great things, not only just for our dairy industry, but for these kids as well.”
The podcast also featured Frank Doll, who serves as Prairie Farms Chairman and NMPF Executive Committee Member and operates a dairy operation near Greenville, IL. Both farmers highlighted the advantages of incorporating whole milk into school lunch programs and emphasized the importance of flavored milk options, which serve as a widely accepted source of nutrition among students. Doll additionally outlined key priorities for the dairy sector as producers prepare for their upcoming annual Washington visit next month.
The Dairy Defined podcast series is available for listeners through Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music by searching for “Dairy Defined.”
