Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) has introduced the Protecting School Milk Choices Act, aiming to preserve access to flavored milk options like chocolate milk in schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Glenn Thompson (PA-15), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-5), Mike Lawler (NY-17), and Derrick Van Orden (WI-3).
“Local governments across the U.S. are moving to replace nutritious dairy products with less healthy artificial alternatives,” Tenney said. “At a time when many students struggle to meet their nutritional needs, we should be expanding healthy, natural drink options instead of promoting highly processed alternatives.” Tenney, whose district is the leading dairy-producing region in the Northeast, emphasized her commitment to supporting dairy farmers and children’s nutrition.
The bill, designated as H.R. 592, seeks to ensure schools offer at least one flavored milk option. Proponents argue that flavored milk is a key source of essential nutrients for children, helping boost dairy consumption and reduce waste. According to data cited by supporters, between 68% and 94% of school-aged children fail to meet recommended dairy intake levels.
Michael Dykes, president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), praised the legislation. “With 13 essential nutrients for growth and immune health, flavored milk helps kids get the nutrition they need,” Dykes noted. He highlighted that through the IDFA’s Healthy School Milk Commitment, over 90% of school milk processors have reduced added sugar in flavored milk to just 7.4 grams per serving.
Supporters see the legislation as crucial for maintaining both nutritional standards and student preference for dairy products in schools nationwide.
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