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
The Action Aims to Lower Food Costs for Consumers and Strengthen the Supply Chain
February 17, 2026 11:09 AM
Slightly higher sales amid shrinking acreage and inventories point to tighter supplies supporting catfish prices.
February 16, 2026 04:00 PM
·
Large carry-in stocks across major crops could limit price recovery in 2026/27 unless demand strengthens or weather-related supply reductions occur.
February 16, 2026 12:30 PM
·
Stable small business confidence supports rural economies, but lingering cost pressures and uncertainty continue to shape farm-country decision-making.
February 16, 2026 12:03 PM
·
Ethanol output is improving, but weak domestic demand and export headwinds temper optimism about corn demand. Renewable Fuels Association President & CEO Geoff Cooper discusses the latest developments on Federal approval of year-round E15.
February 16, 2026 11:00 AM
·
The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has issued final Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) payments totaling more than $1.89 billion.
February 16, 2026 10:55 AM
