Poll: Majority of Americans Want Vegan Milk, Meals in Schools

A new poll by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) suggests that most people in the US agree that schools should offer dairy-free milk and plant-based meals to children.

The poll, conducted by Morning Consult, surveyed more than 2,200 American adults and found that 67 percent either “strongly” or “somewhat” agreed that students should have access to animal-free options. Younger adults were even more likely to agree.

“We need to raise awareness that most Americans think that school lunch lines should include healthier options, including plant-based meals and non-dairy milk alternatives that can help keep students healthy,” Stephanie McBurnett, RDN, a nutrition educator for PCRM, said in a statement.

Why plant-based food and drink are a healthy choice for children

Further research from PCRM found that plant-based school meals tend to be significantly higher in fiber—nearly three times as much as animal-based meals. They also contain less saturated fat, more vitamins and minerals, and zero cholesterol.

“Serving plant-based meals, which are higher in fiber and lower in fat than typical school lunches, can help students fight obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even early signs of heart disease and set them up for a lifetime of good health,” continued McBurnett. “It also introduces children to healthier meals that they might not be seeing at home.”

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Dairy-free milk options are also essential for children who suffer from lactose intolerance. Research suggests that more than 30 million Americans live with the condition, which makes it difficult for the body to digest dairy and can cause symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.

According to the new poll, most respondents were unaware of how common lactose intolerance is in the general population. Fewer than one in four correctly estimated how many Americans are affected.

Progress is being made

Some regions of the US are already making progress in offering healthier, plant-based options to students.

In New York, for instance, the New York City Health Department recently announced updated Food Standards that will expand access to nutritious snacks and plant-based whole foods, and ban processed meats, across 11 city agencies, including hospitals, shelters, and public schools.

“If we are to bend the curve on heart disease, diabetes, and diet-related chronic conditions, we need to harness the power of government food policy to put healthy food within reach for everyone,” said Anupama Joshi, Vice President of Programs with the Center for Science in the Public Interest.