Georgia Milk Producers Fund $200K Dairy Push in Schools

Georgia Milk Producers, in partnership with The Dairy Alliance, is funding a statewide push to install bulk milk dispensers in K-12 schools. According to Southeast AgNet, the announcement was made at last week’s Georgia School Nutrition Association meeting, the initiative includes a $200,000 donation to place dispensers in up to 30 schools, replacing open-top refrigerators and single-serve cartons. Organizers say schools can receive the equipment at no cost and that placements will be targeted for the greatest impact.

Backers cite research showing bulk dispensers can boost students’ fluid milk consumption by up to 47 percent while cutting waste. School nutrition leaders also expect quality gains — fresher, colder milk — and stronger student appeal. Bremen City Schools, for example, plans to deploy four dispensers and anticipates higher overall and à la carte milk sales as waste declines.

The program aligns school nutrition improvements with support for local dairy farms and food-waste reduction goals. With producers, district leaders, and students all on board, organizers see the dispenser rollout as a practical way to improve nutrition and sustainability in Georgia schools.