Explain It to Me
How we Got Milk
May 29, 2024
Explore the history and influence of milk in US schools, from promotion strategies dating back to the 1700s to the impact of USDA marketing campaigns. Uncover the controversial relationship between the dairy industry and schools, and question the health benefits and environmental implications of milk consumption.
41:16
AI Summary
Highlights
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Schools follow government regulations mandating milk in meals despite high waste rates.
- Historical policies promote milk as a superfood, shaping school nutrition policies and industry influence.
Deep dives
The Influence of Dairy in Schools
Schools heavily promote cow's milk due to regulations like the National School Lunch Program that requires milk to be included in every meal. Mary L., a high school student, faced restrictions when trying to raise awareness about the environmental impact of dairy and inhumane practices in the dairy industry at her school. The government's ties to the dairy industry are deep, with policies dating back to 1946 when the National School Lunch Program began, offloading agricultural surplus like excess milk. This partnership has led to a strong influence of the dairy industry in shaping school policies for decades.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
