May our agency eliminate cheese from the food packages and provide only milk as a dairy option to participants?
No. USDA specifies that participants may substitute 1 lb. of cheese for milk (2 lb if fully breastfeeding). Also, differences in foods provided by different agencies appears unfair to participants. CPAs should assess the individuals situation and target counseling based on those factors. Also: CPAs can point out that the participant will receive more food by choosing the “all milk” option. If fat content is a concern, CPAs can counsel on lower fat cheese options, discuss how cheese is used in the diet, limiting other sources of fat in the diet, etc.
