5 reasons for children to drink milk this World School Milk Day

World School Milk Day is back again and we take a look at one of the most nutritious products in the world, milk!

Farmers Guardian
clock • 2 min read
5 reasons for children to drink milk this World School Milk Day

In today's health-conscious world, we explore the benefits of drinking milk - one of the most nutritious products there is.

It has been part of our diet for hundreds of centuries. 

By consuming it, you are supporting the livelihoods of dairy farmers across the country, a profession that may have been in the family for years. 

And it is probably more nutritionally dense than you may think.

READ NOW: Health messaging in the dairy aisle inspires shoppers to buy more

As a nation that constantly changes its dietary standards, we take a look at a few reasons why you should think about consuming this essential dairy product.

Nutrients

Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, not many single foods are as high in nutrients as one glass of milk, according to healthline.com.

These include important vitamins such as B2 and B12 (B12 is especially important in tackling anaemia and keeping blood cells healthy), along with being a great source of calcium and protein.

Stress buster

The whey protein present in dairy can help boost your mood during stressful periods.

READ NOW: Dairy special: Organic Pembrokeshire dairy farm secures future

Historic

The increase in fad diets over recent years has somewhat tainted the benefits of consuming milk, but it has been helping to nourish our nation for over 11,000 years.

In 2018, leading nutritionists and UK scientists launched The Milk Manifesto which aims to really highlight how milk really benefits our bodies.

Heart health

Science has shown us that as milk is high in calcium, iodine and protein, a mix that has a positive relationship with decreasing type 2 diabetes and improving heart health.

Children

We know the calcium content in milk is absolutely beneficial to good bone health and is a great addition to a child's healthy, balanced diet.

The Government have no blanket free school milk scheme currently in place, though children under five years old can get free milk in approved childcare settings in an attempt to improve health, alongside boosting struggling dairy producers. 

Listen now: The Farmers Guardian Podcast - "No return to cheap milk" with Graham Wilkinson

More on Dairy

Opinion: Keep doing the rain dance

Opinion: Keep doing the rain dance

Livestock specialist Katie Fallon talks of continued dry weather and its impact on British Ag

Katie Fallon
clock 19 August 2026 • 2 min read
The roots of regenerative dairy success

The roots of regenerative dairy success

In North Staffordshire, dairy farmer Peter Woodward has put soil at the centre of his business to improve forage, herd health and profitability, which led to being shortlisted for one of VetPartners Sustainable Farming Awards

Dairy Farmer
clock 19 August 2026 • 7 min read
AHDB reveals its latest bull proofs ranked on Profitable Lifetime Index

AHDB reveals its latest bull proofs ranked on Profitable Lifetime Index

There is a new number one bull in the latest AHDB young sire evaluations – Genosource Jumpstart P – transmitting 56.8kg (+0.28%) fat and 35.9kg (+0.12%) protein, alongside a favourable Mastitis Index of -2, earning it a PLI of £919

Farmers Guardian
clock 18 August 2026 • 7 min read