“Nutrition policies must not intentionally or inadvertently discourage the consumption of nutrient-rich, yet under-consumed, food groups such as dairy. IDFA believes that setting a regulatory definition for ‘ultra-processed’ or ‘highly processed’ foods is premature given the inconsistent and inconclusive body of existing science and the absence of causation between the consumption of these foods and specific negative health outcomes. We maintain that nutrient-rich and processed foods are not mutually exclusive," stated Roberta Wagner, IDFA’s senior vice president of regulatory and scientific affairs.
The farmer-founded National Dairy Council (NDC) created Smart Swaps for school nutrition professionals to include dairy on breakfast menus and adapt to evolving meal standards. The program offers training resources along with kid-approved breakfast recipes featuring dairy.
Access to nutritious food is a critical contributor to positive health outcomes for all Americans. This is especially true for mothers, infants, and young children who need the vitamins and nutrients that dairy products provide in order to grow and thrive.
Added sugar levels in flavored milk products sold at schools have plummeted by 57% since 2006 thanks to the voluntary, proactive efforts of America’s school milk processors. Calories associated with flavored milk have also declined, IDFA stated.
With this effort, dozens of U.S. ice cream companies are pledging to eliminate the use of certified artificial colors Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 from their ice cream and frozen dairy desserts by 2028. The Commitment represents companies making more than 90% of the ice cream volume sold in the United States.
Speaking at The Wall Street Journal Global Food Forum on June 17, Smolyansky emphasized her hope that Lifeway's early proposal can serve as a catalyst for broader industry dialogue.
Congress is considering legislation that would once again allow schools to serve whole milk to their students. Earlier this year, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act was reintroduced with bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.
Taking place at Union Square Park on Capitol Hill, the popular summertime celebration provided attendees with America’s favorite and newest ice cream flavors, floats and novelties.