NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Dairy farmers could see stronger school milk demand after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) finalized rules restoring whole and 2% milk options in federal child nutrition programs. The rule applies to schools and child nutrition providers serving children and adults ages two and older.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says the rule implements the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, signed by President Donald Trump on January 14. USDA says the change gives schools more flexibility to serve milk options that reflect nutrition needs and consumer preferences.
The rule restores whole and reduced-fat milk in programs where schools and care providers make daily purchasing decisions. For dairy producers, that could help support fluid milk use in cafeterias, breakfast programs, and other child nutrition settings.
USDA says milk provides protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamins A, D, and B12. The agency says whole milk can help meet the energy and developmental needs of younger children.
USDA is also continuing a broader update to school meal standards aligned with the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Restoring whole and 2% milk options could give dairy farmers another demand channel through school and child nutrition programs.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn joined us Monday to share highlights from Secretary Brooke Rollins’ visit and her perspective on USDA’s new initiatives.
September 29, 2025 02:14 PM
·
RFD-TV Farm Legal and Taxation expert, Roger McEowen, with the Washburn School of Law, joined us Monday to break down the changes and explain what producers should know.
September 29, 2025 01:57 PM
·
North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU) President Mark Watne joined us Monday to share his perspective on the America First Trade Promotion Program and potential implications for producers.
September 29, 2025 01:38 PM
·
A booming butterfat market is good for some dairy products but threatens efficiency and margins for cheesemakers unless protein levels catch up
September 29, 2025 12:53 PM
·
Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), joined us in Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the USDA’s plan and potential impact on producers.
September 29, 2025 12:17 PM
·
September 29, 2025 11:54 AM
·
