Philadelphia schools face a milk dilemma as a national shortage of four-ounce and eight-ounce milk cartons disrupts lunch offerings.
The School District of Philadelphia cites packaging issues in the supply chain, resulting in the absence of strawberry milk on trays. With over 300,000 daily milk servings, the district anticipates a potential months-long shortage.
To adapt, they’re preparing alternative hydration solutions, including additional water stations and low-sugar juices. While milk is a meal requirement, the U.S. Department of Agriculture grants schools flexibility in offering different milk types or alternatives.
Philly schools aim to navigate the shortage while ensuring students have beverage options during meal service.