The United States Department of Agriculture says they are considering removing chocolate milk from elementary and middle school cafeteria menus as an initiative to reduce sugar intake.
RELATED STORIES: Elementary School Discovers Students Were Served Floor Sealant Instead Of Milk
In February, the agency opened a comment request and requested feedback on its proposal to revise school nutritional standards. Since it was published, the proposal has received over 92,000 comments, including limiting added sugars in school lunch and breakfast, as reported by ABC News. Another suggestion the USDA proposed is reducing the amount of strawberry and chocolate milk in high schools but banning them completely in elementary and middle schools.
“A few respondents recommended that USDA disallow all flavored milks in the programs; one advocacy organization was concerned that offering flavored milk every day would train a child’s palate to prefer sugar-sweetened foods. Another advocacy organization focused on public health suggested that if USDA continues to allow flavored, low-fat milk, it should establish a limit to prevent schools from serving flavored milks that are high in added sugars.”
RELATED STORIES: Halsey Reveals Their Own ‘Breast Milk’ Is Their ‘Best Skincare Ingredient’ — ‘It’s So Full Of Antioxidants’
Some also noted that schools would issue whole milk as an alternative to strawberry or chocolate milk.
“A few respondents suggested that USDA allow whole milk to be served in the school meal programs, arguing that whole milk would help reduce food waste and provide children with important vitamins and nutrients. One industry respondent stated that dairy products at all fat levels, including reduced-fat and whole milk, should be permitted in school meals.”
They're not wrong, but these kids aren't going to live in a sugar free Eden of health and physical fitness. They're in America. Let's not kid ourselves that no chocolate milk at school addresses our national nutritional problems.
— KK Lena 🟧🌈☮️ (@meltedpotmama) May 18, 2023
Why do schools serve chocolate milk during lunch?
There are a few reasons. First, chocolate milk is popular with children. Studies have shown that children are more likely to drink milk if it is chocolate flavored. Second, chocolate milk can help children get the calcium they need. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth. Third, chocolate milk is a good source of protein. Protein is important for muscle growth and development.
Of course, chocolate milk also has some drawbacks. It is high in sugar, and too much sugar can lead to weight gain and other health problems. However, there are ways to reduce the sugar content of chocolate milk. For example, schools can serve chocolate milk with less added sugar, or they can serve it with a side of fruit.
Additionally, there are some benefits of chocolate milk:
- Chocolate milk is a good calcium, protein, and vitamin D source.
- Chocolate milk can help children get the necessary nutrients to grow and develop.
- Chocolate milk can help children perform better in school.
- Chocolate milk is a popular choice with children.
- Chocolate milk can be a healthy choice for children if consumed in moderation.