The decision to bring whole and 2% milk back to school lunches reflects the influence of the dairy industry more than the needs of today's students.

Millions of Americans - particularly people of color - are lactose intolerant, making cow's milk an unsuitable choice for many children.

At the same time, nutritious plant-based milks such as soy, oat and pea are widely available and can meet students' nutritional needs without excluding those who cannot digest dairy.