What are the guidelines for serving milk to young children?

The guidelines for serving milk to young children emphasize that whole milk is recommended for children under the age of 2. This is primarily due to the nutritional needs of infants and toddlers, who require fats for brain development and overall growth. Whole milk provides essential fatty acids and vitamins that are crucial during this rapid growth stage.

For children over the age of 2, lower-fat options like skim or 2% milk can be introduced, as their dietary needs change and they start to consume a more diverse range of foods that provide the necessary nutrients. Therefore, serving whole milk to children under 2 aligns with nutritional recommendations aimed at supporting their developmental needs. This guideline helps ensure that young children receive the appropriate level of calories and nutrients from their milk intake.