In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the need for dietary alternatives in schools, particularly concerning the high rates of lactose intolerance among students from diverse backgrounds. A significant point raised was that 75% of Black students, 90% of Asian students, 60% of Latino students, and 95% of Native American students are unable to digest dairy milk without adverse health effects.

The conversation highlighted the necessity for bipartisan support in introducing alternatives to dairy, specifically through the proposed \"Add Soy Act.\" This legislation aims to provide students with the option to choose nutritionally equivalent plant-based milks, which could alleviate health issues associated with lactose intolerance.

Dr. Brune, a participant in the meeting, acknowledged the nutritional benefits of dairy milk, which contains 13 essential nutrients, but also recognized the importance of flexibility in dietary choices for children. He noted that while plant-based milks are not yet fully comparable in nutrition to dairy, some options are improving. The success of culturally appropriate milk alternatives in programs like WIC was cited as a precedent for the potential positive impact of offering diverse milk choices in schools.

The meeting underscored the importance of providing students with options that align with their health needs and cultural backgrounds, emphasizing that flexibility in dietary choices can lead to better health outcomes and dietary habits among children.