USDA’s MyPlate icon reminds Americans that milk helps round out a healthy meal. The simple symbol emphasizes the importance of fruits, vegetables, grains and protein on the plate, with a serving of fat free or lowfat dairy on the side.

Build a Healthy Plate with Lowfat Milk

Whether you start your day with milk and cereal, enjoy a refreshing glass of cold milk at meals or grab a smoothie or latte, lowfat milk is part of healthy diet at breakfast and beyond. Check out these simple and delicious recipes (link to recipe page) to incorporate daily. 

Did you know?

• Milk’s unique nutrient package is unlike any of the other MyPlate food groups.
• Milk is the leading food source of three out of the four “nutrients of concern” outlined in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines –calcium, vitamin D and potassium1. So getting the daily recommended servings of lowfat or fat free milk can be an important part of closing the nutrient gap.
• Milk also contains high-quality protein, contributing more in one 8-ounce serving than you’ll find in an egg. In fact, the dairy food group contributes 18 percent of the protein to the American diet2.
• Lowfat flavored milk “counts” too. It’s a nutrient-rich beverage that provides the same nine essential nutrients as white milk, with calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins A, D and B12, riboflavin and niacin.

References: 

1. U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010. 7th Edition, Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, December 2010.
2. Dairy Research Institute, NHANES (2003-2006). Ages 2+ years. Data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Hyattsville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, [2003-2004; 2005-2006].