WASHINGTON — Two U.S. congressmen have introduced a bill that would require school foodservice operations to offer more milk options, like flavored varieties.
The proposal also requires cafeterias to continue offering milk at each school meal, as currently required.
"As our nation works to replace ‘empty calorie’ foods in our children’s school meals, one thing is clear — low-fat dairy is the opposite of ‘empty,’” Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., said in a statement about the bill, which he is co-sponsoring with G.T. Thompson, R-Pa. “It packs valuable nutrients, including protein, potassium and calcium — a solid foundation for building a healthy menu in America’s schools."
Milk consumption in schools has fallen in recent years, according to the National Dairy Council.
This bill comes as Congress prepares to reauthorize school meal and child nutrition programs ahead of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, which expires this September.
The International Dairy Foods Association and the National Milk Producers Federation have both issued statements of support.