U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins, has expressed approval of a new initiative by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA). The IDFA recently announced their Healthy Dairy in Schools Commitment, a pledge to remove certain artificial colors from dairy products offered in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs.
The colors to be eliminated include Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. This change will take effect starting in the 2026-2027 academic year and will impact dairy items such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Secretary Rollins endorsed the IDFA's voluntary move to enhance the quality of dairy products provided to K-12 schools. This development indicates a significant step towards healthier food choices for students participating in school meal programs across the United States.
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