World School Milk Day

World School Milk Day is celebrated annually on the last Wednesday of September. The day highlights the value of school milk programs and promotes awareness of milk as a source of nutrients for children and young people around the world.

History of World School Milk Day

School milk programs have existed in different forms for many decades. In the United Kingdom, school milk became widely associated with postwar public health efforts, including the provision of milk to children in schools.

Other countries later developed their own school milk and dairy programs to support child nutrition. These initiatives were designed to make milk more accessible to students and encourage healthy eating habits from an early age.

World School Milk Day was established in 2000 by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to celebrate school milk programs and share experiences among countries. Today, the observance is marked by schools, dairy organizations, nutrition groups, and communities worldwide.

Interesting Facts About World School Milk Day

• World School Milk Day is observed on the last Wednesday of September each year.
• Milk contains calcium, protein, and other nutrients that support children’s growth and development.
• Some school milk programs include fortified milk with added vitamin D.
• School milk programs vary by country, depending on local nutrition policies and food traditions.

How to Take Part in World School Milk Day

Learn more about school milk programs and how they support child nutrition in different countries.

Encourage children to understand the role of dairy and other nutritious foods in a balanced diet. Parents and teachers can also prepare simple milk-based recipes or classroom activities.

Schools, families, and communities can mark the day with educational events, tastings, posters, or discussions about healthy eating habits.

When Is World School Milk Day in 2026?

World School Milk Day is observed on the last Wednesday of September each year.

Observations