Nearly four years ago, IDFA and the National Milk Producers Federation filed a citizen's petition with the Food and Drug Administration requesting a modification of the standards for milk and other dairy products to allow the use of non-nutritive sweeteners. Just last week, FDA published the petition in the Federal Register along with the agency's request for public comment.
The petition was and continues to be a direct attempt to keep flavored milks in school cafeterias, as federal agencies and consumer groups continue to push for lower-calorie milk and foods on school menus to combat increases in childhood obesity.
The current standard requires processors to use special labeling, such as "reduced-calorie chocolate milk," for milk made with non-nutritive sweeteners. This phrase, according to market research, doesn't appeal to children and has contributed to the overall decline in milk consumption in schools, the petition states.
Allowing milk processors to use any "safe and suitable" sweetener in flavored milk and still label it "milk" would help to stem the drop in consumption, while promoting healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.
To read the rest of the story, please go to: International Dairy Foods Association