The House Committee on Education and the Workforce has successfully passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, a pivotal step toward reintroducing whole and reduced-fat milk in school cafeterias.
The bill, passed with a vote of 24-10, reflects a strong bipartisan agreement and is now awaiting further approval by the full House and Senate.
Endorsed by Michael Dykes, IDFA’s president and CEO, the move is celebrated across various sectors. “Today’s strong, bipartisan passage... demonstrates the widespread support the bill enjoys,” Dykes commented. He urged swift action to reintroduce nutritious milk options to school children, highlighting over a decade’s absence from school menus.
The lack of whole and 2% milk in schools has led to a significant decline in dairy consumption, with many children not meeting the federal guidelines for necessary nutrients.
Nutritional science supports the reintroduction, linking full-fat dairy products like whole milk to numerous health benefits, including lower risks of obesity and heart disease among children.
The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act aims to revitalize school meal programs, offering children essential nutrients that support their growth, immune function, and overall health.
For further details on the role of whole and 2% milk in promoting child wellness, visit www.wholemilkforkids.com.