As another win for dairy, school milk processors have slashed added sugars in flavored milk by nearly 60% since 2006, making it a healthier choice for kids across the country thanks to a voluntary, industry-led effort.
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced Aug. 7, that its Healthy School Milk Commitment, which launched in April 2023, has successfully lowered the average added sugar in flavored milk served in schools to just 7.2 grams per 8-ounce serving, well below the pledged maximum of 10 grams by the 2025/26 school year.
Thirty-seven school milk processors, who make about 95% of the milk served in schools across the U.S., teamed up to set goals to make milk healthier with fewer calories and less added sugar. And according to IDFA, they’re already beating those targets, cutting calories in flavored milk from 166 down to 123 per serving.
“The reduction of added sugars in school milk is a big win for America’s parents and children,” says Michael Dykes, DVM, president and CEO of IDFA, in a company statement. “For more than two years, dairy companies have worked to reformulate their products to reduce added sugars, lower calories, remove artificial colors and introduce new lactose-free options — all while preserving milk’s 13 essential nutrients that support children’s growth and development. Milk remains the leading source of calcium, vitamin D and potassium for American kids.”
According to IDFA, the Healthy School Milk Commitment has helped set the pace for USDA nutrition standards, which now align with the voluntary industry goal of no more than 10 grams of added sugar per serving.
Keeping Milk on the Menu
For decades, flavored milk has played an important role in school nutrition. Despite common concerns, flavored milk contributes less than 4% of added sugars in the diets of children aged 2 to 18. In fact, the total sugar content in flavored milk is lower than that in 100% fruit juices like apple and orange juice, while also providing more nutrients.
School nutrition professionals have praised the commitment.
“Milk is a critical part of well-balanced school meals that support student health and achievement,” says Stephanie Dillard, MS, SNS, president of the School Nutrition Association. “Our members rely on America’s milk processors as partners in delivering nutritious, appealing options that meet updated nutrition standards.”
The Urban School Food Alliance echoes the praise.
“Reducing sugar in flavored milk makes it easier for us to keep milk on the lunch tray while educating students and parents about milk’s important role in a healthy diet,” says Katie Wilson, executive director of the Alliance.
Currently, more than 30 million children participate in USDA’s school meal programs each day. In late 2023, the Healthy School Milk Commitment was expanded to include the Summer Food Service Program, extending access to nutritious milk during the summer months.
IDFA states the dairy industry’s commitment to child nutrition includes more than sugar reduction. By 2026, processors plan to also remove all certified artificial colors from milk, cheese and yogurt served in schools.
These efforts build on broader industry initiatives, including a pledge to remove certified artificial colors from ice cream made with real milk by 2027. Through ongoing collaboration with schools and nutrition experts, the industry aims to keep nutritious dairy products a core part of healthy meals for children.
