Why Schools Still Push Milk (and How to Respond Politely)
It's not malice. It's policy, funding, and tradition.
The Reality / Science
Schools push milk because of federal lunch program requirements and dairy industry lobbying. The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) mandates milk as a beverage option. Dairy subsidies make milk cheap. Schools benefit financially from serving dairy. It's not about nutrition—it's about policy and money.
But here's the good news: Schools cannot force your child to drink milk. Federal law allows substitutions for medical or religious reasons. Lactose intolerance qualifies. You have rights. Most schools will accommodate once you ask—they just don't advertise it.
"Federal school lunch programs mandate milk availability but allow substitutions for documented medical reasons, including lactose intolerance." — USDA National School Lunch Program
Why the Myth Persists
Schools don't advertise alternatives. Parents assume milk is mandatory. Teachers don't know the rules. Administrators follow tradition without questioning it. But the rules exist—they're just not well-known. Advocacy changes this.
Parental Perspective
You have more power than you think. Schools want to accommodate you—they just need clear communication. A polite request with documentation usually works. You're not being difficult. You're advocating for your child's health.
Takeaway / Action Tip
- Start with the teacher: "My child has lactose intolerance. Can we arrange a dairy-free beverage option?"
- If needed, escalate to the cafeteria manager: "We need to document a medical accommodation for lactose intolerance."
- Have documentation ready: A note from your pediatrician helps, but isn't always required.
- Suggest alternatives: "Could my child bring a dairy-free milk, or would the school provide one?"
Key phrase: "Medical accommodation for lactose intolerance." Schools understand this language.