Trump signs bill allowing whole milk, nondairy options in schools

Whole milk is heading back to school cafeterias across the U.S. after President Donald Trump signed a bill overturning Obama-era limits on higher-fat milk options.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, signed Wednesday (14 January) at the White House, allows schools in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and 2% milk alongside skim and low-fat options. Nondairy alternatives such as fortified soy milk may also be offered if they meet nutritional standards.

Trump praised the change at the signing ceremony. “Whether you're a Democrat or a Republican, whole milk is a great thing.”

Lawmakers, dairy farmers, and children attended the event.

The law also permits parents, not just doctors, to provide notes requesting nondairy milk alternatives for students with dietary restrictions.

The move coincides with the release of the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which encourage full-fat dairy consumption, reversing previous guidance recommending low-fat or fat-free milk for those over age two.

The change could take effect as early as this fall, though schools may need time to adjust supply chains and gauge demand.

The return of whole milk reverses provisions of the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act, championed by former First Lady Michelle Obama, which aimed to reduce saturated fat intake and combat childhood obesity.

Supporters argue whole milk is nutritious and may even help prevent obesity, while critics point to past efforts to limit saturated fat in school meals. Advocates also note that children often dislike low-fat milk, leading to missed nutrition and food waste.

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