U.S. Whole Milk Returns to School Lunches after Trump Signs Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act

Washington, D.C. — Whole and 2% milk are poised to return to many school cafeterias under a newly signed federal law that expands milk options in the National School Lunch Program—an update families may start seeing on menus in the coming weeks.

The change follows President Donald Trump signing S. 222, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, on January 14, 2026, according to a White House bill-signing notice and USDA’s own announcement. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins highlighted the shift in a Fox News op-ed that USDA promoted Tuesday.

Supporters say offering higher-fat milk could reduce waste if more students choose milk and help dairy farmers by increasing demand. The law allows schools to serve whole and 2% milk alongside low-fat and fat-free options, while also updating rules around non-dairy alternatives.

Public-health experts remain divided: some argue full-fat dairy can fit into healthy diets, while others still prefer low-fat options due to saturated fat concerns. Families should expect local decisions to vary because districts and food-service providers control what’s stocked and served day to day.

What parents can do now: check your district’s nutrition page for menu updates, ask whether whole or 2% milk will be offered daily, and confirm what documentation (if any) is required for non-dairy substitutions.

USDA and the administration say implementation guidance will roll out soon; parents can also monitor updates through their school nutrition office and USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service channels.

This article was produced by a education parenting today journalist with the assistance of Ai. This is not legal advice. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.