How does flavored milk fit into school nutrition programs?
The importance of providing children milk they like, and therefore will drink, was highlighted by a School Milk Pilot Test, which demonstrated that with simple product improvements — including adding additional flavors and plastic packaging — milk sales increased 18% overall at both the elementary and secondary levels and milk consumption increased up to 37%. 3 Furthermore, a 2004 report on soft drinks in schools from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends replacing sweetened drinks with real fruit and vegetable juices, water and low-fat white or flavored milk. The report also notes that as sweetened drink consumption rises, milk consumption declines, and that milk is the primary source of calcium in the diets of children and adolescents.4 Children are more likely to drink flavored milk on a regular basis at school than at home.5,6 Offering a variety of flavored milks helps ensure children have access to nutritious beverages.
