Abbie Lucas, Primary 2, Acorn Integrated Primary School, Carrickfergus, is all smiles as she helps the Dairy Council for Northern Ireland celebrate the 20 years of World School Milk Day.
Taking place on Wednesday 30th September this year, this annual occassion marks the benefits and success of school milk programmes across the globe.
More than half of Northern Ireland’s primary and special education schools are part of the School Milk Scheme which places emphasis on the importance of milk as part of a healthy, balanced diet, providing children with nutrients including calcium, protein, potassium, phosphorus, iodine and vitamins B2 and B12.
Dr Mike Johnston, CEO of the Dairy Council for Northern Ireland comments,
“This programme is significant as it encourages children to consume dairy products as part of a balanced diet, and plays an important educational role by encouraging healthy eating patterns at an early age. With World School Milk Day now in its 20th year, I am delighted so many children from across Northern Ireland are enjoying both the great tastes and the benefits of milk during the school day.”
Find out more about the benefits of school milk and download our ‘Milk and More’ booklet about eating well throughout the school day.