Whole Milk Access for Students

By Scout Nelson

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 is moving to the president’s desk after gaining approval from both chambers of Congress. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill last week, following unanimous approval by the Senate earlier this year.

The legislation was first introduced in 2023 and later reintroduced with strong bipartisan support. Its passage reflects growing concern over declining milk consumption among students and the need to improve nutrition options in school meal programs.

“This is a win for kids, parents, Kansas dairy farmers, and common sense. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act puts nutrition back in the lunchroom, gives families more choice, and ensures our children have access to the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy,” said Marshall.

If signed into law, schools will once again be allowed to serve whole milk and reduced fat milk, including two percent milk, alongside the low fat and fat free options currently available. Federal nutrition standards removed whole and reduced fat milk from school meal programs in 2012.

Since those changes took effect, milk consumption among school children has steadily declined. Nutrition experts and educators have raised concerns that limiting milk options may reduce overall intake of important nutrients during key growth years.

Research shows that nearly ninety percent of Americans do not meet recommended daily dairy intake levels. Many children and adults fall short on essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone development and overall health.

Whole milk provides a natural source of these nutrients and can help support balanced diets when consumed in appropriate portions. Supporters of the legislation believe offering more milk choices will encourage students to drink milk again and improve participation in school meal programs.

The act aims to give schools greater flexibility while allowing families and students to make informed choices based on preference and nutritional needs. Education leaders say expanded options may also reduce food waste in cafeterias.

Once signed, the policy change is expected to take effect through updates to federal school nutrition guidelines, marking a shift toward broader dietary choice in school meals.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-dimasobko