USDA Allows Whole and Reduced-Fat Milk in School and Child Care Meals
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Table of Contents
The Food and Nutrition Service has updated federal rules for school and child care meal programs to allow whole milk and reduced-fat (2 percent) milk for children ages two and older, as well as for adults. Previously, these programs were only permitted to serve low-fat (1 percent) or fat-free milk to that age group.
Why it matters: This rule changes the compliance checklist for school food authorities and child care providers. Instead of tracking milkfat percentages for children over two, operators can now stock and serve whole or reduced-fat milk without losing reimbursement or violating program rules. The adjustment is largely administrative, aligned with recent dietary science and congressional direction, and does not change how meals are structured or priced.
Who it affects
- School food authorities and district nutrition directors
This final rule was issued by the Food and Nutrition Service at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Operators should review the full Federal Register document for exact regulatory text and implementation timelines before updating procurement or compliance procedures.
Agency: Agriculture Department, Food and Nutrition Service
Source: Federal Register — read the official document