Chocolate milk ban may be coming to a school near you

May 10, 2011, 12:06 by R.E. Christian

Chocolate milk is on the chopping block at public schools. 

As many schools revamp their menus to include healthier items for the nation�s children, ABC reports that many schools are considering banning chocolate milk and other flavored milks that contain added sugar next.

ABC reports that School Nutrition Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Dietetic Association, American Heart Association, and National Medical Association, have released a joint statement in support of flavored milk, despite the added sugar, due to the nutritional value of milk that includes nine essential nutrients including calcium, vitamin D and protein.

The statement also claims that studies show that kids who drink fat-free, flavored milk meet more of their nutrient needs and are not heavier than children who do not drink milk.

According to the industry-supported Milk Processors Education Program, nutritionists and parents are split on the issue.

Julie Buric, vice president of marketing for the Milk Processors Education Program told ABC: "Chocolate milk has been unfairly pegged as one of the causes of obesity." 

The organization also reports that milk consumption decreases by 35 percent when flavored milks are removed from schools.  However this has not stopped states such as Florida and California from seriously considering a bans of flavored milk.

Ann Cooper, director of nutrition services for the Boulder Valley School District in Louisville, CO, is in favor of ban, saying: "Chocolate milk is soda in drag. It works as a treat in homes, but it doesn't belong in schools."