Schools can now serve whole milk again under new federal law

What does this do?

The law lets schools serve whole and reduced-fat milk, flavored or unflavored, plus organic options, in addition to low-fat and fat-free milk. Parents or guardians, not just physicians, can now request dairy substitutions, and whole milk's fat won't count against a meal's saturated fat limit. Schools may also offer nondairy beverages like fortified soy milk if they meet nutrition standards similar to cow's milk. The law separately requires school food service staff to receive training on preventing, recognizing, and responding to food allergies.

Who does it affect?

School nutrition programs, food service directors, cafeteria workers, and families with children in public schools.

Why does it matter?

The changes give schools more flexibility in meeting nutrition standards while expanding milk choices for students, and add a food-safety training requirement for staff.

Where does it stand?