Supporting student learning starts with access to nourishing foods and positive food experiences at school. School food programs and food literacy initiatives can help support students’ well-being, learning, and connection to their school communities [1].
Milk and dairy products can be one of many nutritious and convenient options available to schools. Research suggests that children who drink milk at school are more likely to meet their nutrient needs [2].
BC Dairy works with BC’s dairy farmers to provide information, resources, and nutrition education that support educators, school communities, and school food initiatives. This resource hub brings together information about milk and dairy products, dairy farming in BC, school food programs, and nutrition education resources for educators and school communities.
Kids who enjoy milk at school are more likely to meet their nutrient needs! Serving milk and dairy products is a fantastic way to help nourish students.
School food programs can play an important role in supporting student well-being, learning, and engagement. Canadian research has linked school food programs with benefits such as improved cognitive function, increased attendance, enhanced mental health, and better overall health outcomes [3].
Learn more about the role milk and dairy products can play within school food programs.
Choosing locally produced foods can help students learn more about where their food comes from and the people who produce it. In BC, most dairy farms are family-owned operations that are part of communities throughout the province.
Discover how milk is produced in BC and why dairy is a unique part of our local food system. When it comes to local food, milk stands out!
Schools provide valuable opportunities for students to develop food skills, build confidence with food, and learn about nutrition in meaningful ways. Beyond nourishment, food can be a powerful teaching tool that supports cross-curricular learning and helps students build positive relationships with food.
In collaboration with BC’s dairy farmers, BC Dairy’s team of registered dietitians has been developing complimentary nutrition education resources for BC educators since the 1970s. Explore curriculum-connected resources, classroom activities, and professional learning opportunities designed to support food literacy in schools.
