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
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins joined us to discuss fertilizer markets, domestic supply efforts, trade priorities, and ongoing policy work aimed at stabilizing costs for U.S. farmers.
April 21, 2026 03:39 PM
·
RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses the DOJ investigation into U.S. beef packers, concerns about cattle pricing, and ongoing trade and animal health issues affecting producers.
April 21, 2026 02:37 PM
·
Strong demand for U.S. beef in Mexico is boosting exports, with buyers seeking both variety meats and high-quality cuts like Prime and Choice ribeye.
April 21, 2026 12:49 PM
·
Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, proposed fertilizer legislation, and potential support for farmers navigating tight margins.
April 21, 2026 12:39 PM
·
As AI-driven data centers expand in rural South Texas, local officials and economists debate water use, farmland impacts, and the balance between technology growth and agriculture preservation.
April 21, 2026 10:10 AM
·
As federal policy shifts toward greater tribal sovereignty, farmers and ranchers (and their legal counsel) must prioritize clear, written contracts and stay engaged with state legislative developments and tribal council updates.
April 21, 2026 09:00 AM
·
