Students have always vocalized a dislike for the taste of milk in cartons, which is resulting in a decrease in school milk consumption. Not only that, students waste 30% of all milk from cartons – equating to approximately 4 gallons of milk waste each day. It’s a significant problem in many schools. Some districts are taking action with one simple change: Bulk Milk Service.
The Magic of Milk
For students at risk of food insecurity, school meals often provide the majority of their daily nutritional needs. Milk is the #1 source of nine essential nutrients – including protein, vitamins and minerals – which are vital for growing strong bodies and smart brains. This makes milk an integral part of school meal programs.
According to a 2017 USDA study, 77% of daily milk consumption for low-income children aged 15 to 18 came from National School Meal Programs.
Moo-ve More Milk with Bulk Milk Service
Bulk milk service has proven to increase milk consumption in school meal programs. Milk dispensers have better temperature retention than individually packaged cartons – meaning the milk stays colder and at a constant temperature. Colder milk is tastier milk. The tastier the milk, the more likely kids are to drink it.
Post Milk Dispenser Results:
41% Increase in daily milk taken
52% Increase in daily milk consumed
Source: Bluestone Elementary School Study
Bulk Milk Service Adds a Fun Twist to your Milk Program
Kids enjoy serving themselves from bulk milk dispensers and especially like the ability to mix the chocolate and regular milks together. This is also a win for nutrition staff because it brings down the sugar content of the pure chocolate milk. When you include low-fat chocolate milk in fun ways like this, you can improve your student’s dairy intake and ultimately ensure they get the essential nutrients they need to grow strong and focus well in school.
The USDA ruled that “expanding milk choices will likely improve student participation in school meal programs and increase milk consumption.”
Additional Ways to Increase Milk Consumption
- Provide Oatmeal Made with Milk
- Include Milk in Fresh Fruit Smoothies
- Offer Frothy Cafe Latte’s
- Implement a Hot Chocolate Program
Get Started Today
Students deserve to be happy and healthy. It’s up to us as adults to ensure the right environment is there for them to thrive. That’s why HUBERT is working with schools to put Bulk Milk Service in action across the country. We have experts on hand to help you get started. Contact us today!
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