Pro

The American Dietetic Association (ADA) stated the following in its Nov. 11, 2009 press release "Science Supports the Important Role of Milk, Including Flavored Milk, in Children's Nutrition," available at the Eat Right website:

“All milk contains a unique combination of nutrients important for growth and development. And flavored milk accounts for less than 3.5 percent of added sugar intake among children ages 6-12 and less than 2 percent of the added sugar intake among teens. Studies have shown that children who drink flavored milk meet more of their nutrient needs; do not consume more added sugar, fat or calories; and are not heavier than non-milk drinkers…

Flavored milk contains the same nine essential nutrients as white milk – calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins A, D and B12, riboflavin and niacin (niacin equivalents).

Drinking low-fat or fat-free white or flavored milk helps kids get the 3 daily servings* of milk recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and provides three of the five ‘nutrients of concern’ that children do not get enough of – calcium, potassium and magnesium as well as vitamin D.

Low-fat chocolate milk is the most popular milk choice in schools and kids drink less milk (and get fewer nutrients) if it’s taken away.”

Nov. 11, 2009