Schools looking to add whole milk back to their cafeteria offerings will need to navigate several logistical hurdles, according to a nutrition education specialist.
Brianna Henton, who serves as director of youth engagement and outreach for the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, explained that educational institutions already have permission to include whole milk in their meal programs. However, she noted that federal guidelines from the USDA are still being developed to provide clearer direction.
“Schools do have the option to put this on their menu today, (but) the USDA still needs to come up with” additional guidance, Henton stated.
The transition faces practical challenges including increased expenses and refrigeration capacity issues that could delay widespread adoption across school districts nationwide.
