Summary
Lets schools in the national lunch program offer whole milk and other milk types, and requires food allergy training for school food service workers.
What problem does this solve?
Current school lunch rules limit the types of milk schools can offer, and food service staff may not have enough training on food allergies. This law allows schools to serve whole milk and other options and requires food allergy training for school food service workers.
Who does this affect?
- School-aged children
- School food service staff
- Dairy farmers
What does this law do?
Allows whole milk in schools
Permits schools in the National School Lunch Program to offer students flavored and unflavored whole milk, either organic or non-organic.
Exempts milk fat from saturated fat limits
States that milk fat in any milk offered will not count toward the meal's total saturated fat limit, making it easier for schools to serve whole milk.
Requires food allergy training
Adds a new requirement for school food service staff to be trained on preventing, recognizing, and responding to food-related allergic reactions.
Expands non-dairy beverage options
Allows schools to offer non-dairy drinks that are nutritionally the same as cow's milk, providing alternatives for students.
Allows parents to request milk substitutes
Lets a parent or legal guardian, in addition to a physician, request a milk substitute for a student with a medical or special dietary need.
What is the real world impact?
•
Boosts the dairy industry
By allowing whole milk in schools, the law increases the market for dairy products, which helps dairy farmers and producers.
•
Increases choices for students
Gives students more milk options, including whole, low-fat, and non-dairy drinks, to better suit their tastes and dietary needs.
•
Improves food allergy safety
Requires training for school food staff on how to prevent and respond to allergic reactions, making schools safer for kids with allergies.
When does this start?
The new rules take effect on January 14, 2026.