NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — U.S. milk production is on pace to reach a record high this year, even as overall fluid milk consumption continues to decline. One potential bright spot for the industry could come from a renewed effort to allow whole milk back into schools.
Legislation aimed at reversing restrictions on whole milk is still awaiting full consideration by both the House and Senate. Supporters say the change could provide a meaningful boost for dairy demand while giving students more nutritious options.
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Economist Danny Munch joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act’s potential impact on the dairy industry.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, Munch explained why whole milk was initially restricted in schools and provided insight into current consumption trends. He said recent years have seen a steady drop in fluid milk consumption, driven by evolving consumer preferences and competition from alternative beverages.
Previously, Munch explained, whole milk was removed from schools due to dietary trends that favored a reduction in children’s intake of saturated fat, but that science has since been disproved. However, he also noted that the proposed legislation would not require schools to serve whole milk — merely give them the option to do so.
Munch also noted that returning whole milk to school cafeterias could have positive effects on both student nutrition and dairy producers, helping to stabilize demand and support farm income.
Currently, Munch said, the 2% and nonfat milk served in schools account for approximately 8% of total fluid milk demand. Adding whole milk to the mix would also increase butterfat demand for whole milk. Great news for the U.S. dairy industry, which has recently experienced domestic production booms that have reduced stocks.
Leslee Oden, president of the National Turkey Federation, and Jay Jandrain, CEO of Butterball, joined us in the studio on Monday to discuss the history, significance, and expectations surrounding this year’s presidential turkey pardon.
November 24, 2025 12:04 PM
·
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) estimates that the move will save farmers and ranchers $2.5 billion each year. The group warns that new methods for calculating the adverse-effect wage rate would result in lower pay for foreign workers.
November 24, 2025 11:32 AM
·
These “USDA Foods” are provided to USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) nutrition assistance programs, including food banks that operate The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and are a vital component of the nation’s food safety net.
November 24, 2025 10:09 AM
·
Gary Hall, co-founder of Hollywood Impact Studios Rehabilitation, joined the program to discuss using agriculture to provide opportunities and mentorship for at-risk youth in Southern California.
November 21, 2025 02:25 PM
·
The agriculture workforce remains strong and diverse, offering meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers that support the food and farm economy.
November 21, 2025 02:13 PM
·
Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
November 21, 2025 02:09 PM
·
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
November 21, 2025 01:59 PM
·
Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association explains a new resource designed to help farmers comply with ESA-related pesticide label requirements.
November 21, 2025 01:56 PM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall discusses the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and what expanded milk options could mean for students and dairy farmers. Industry groups say it is a win for student nutrition and dairy producers.
November 21, 2025 01:19 PM
·
