Upstate dairy farmers and New York students have some benefits coming their way soon, according to U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. Schumer announced Thursday the passing of a bipartisan bill in the Senate this week. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which Schumer co-sponsored, would allow schools to once again offer whole and reduced-fat milk, both flavored and unflavored, as part of their cafeteria menus.
Schools participating in the USDA’s meals program have been limited in the types of milk they can serve since 2012. Schumer said restoring more options is expected to boost milk consumption among students while supporting one of New York’s largest agricultural sectors.
“Milk is an essential part of our students’ school lunches and the lifeblood of our Upstate agricultural economy,” Schumer said in a release.
Supporters of the legislation point to research highlighting milk’s nutritional benefits, including calcium and vitamin D — two nutrients federal guidelines say many children don’t get enough of. The bill also cites studies suggesting that children who drink higher-fat milk may experience lower rates of obesity and other improved health outcomes.
New York remains one of the nation’s leading dairy states, with nearly 3,000 farms producing more than 16 billion pounds of milk annually, according to the state Department of Agriculture and Markets.
The bill now awaits further action in the House.
The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act can be found HERE.
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