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SAY YES TO SOYMILK IN THE SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM USDA STILL NEEDS TO HEAR FROM YOU
WHAT? SOYMILK IS NOT ALLOWED? The Child Nutrition Acts—which create federal food programs such as the School Lunch Program, the School Breakfast Program, and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program—require that participants in these programs have access to cow’s milk. Participants cannot choose other calcium sources, such as soymilk or calcium-fortified juices, because the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will not pay to make these alternatives available. Children in these programs are denied the choice to consume a healthy beverage. But, Congress is currently reviewing the Child Nutrition Acts so changes can be made. As part of the review process, Congress will receive recommendations in the form of a “legislative proposal” from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), which oversees the child nutrition programs. FNS’ legislative proposal is wending its way through the USDA administrative channels for approval, so time is of the essence to get your voice heard. WHAT CAN YOU DO Please ask the USDA to add soymilks, rice milks, and juices (all calcium fortified, of course) as mandatory alternatives to cow’s milk in all of the child nutrition programs.
Eric M. Bost
Ann Veneman
Peter Murano, Associate Deputy Administrator 09/11/02 |
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