NYC Schools Report Strong Student Demand And Lower GHG Emissions During Soy Milk Pilot

A soy milk pilot program in New York City schools has shown strong student demand and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. As a result of the positive results, the program will be expanded to 12 schools this fall. The program, which offers organic soy milk on the lunch line, was launched by the NYC Office of Food & Nutrition Services and the Mayor’s Office of Food Policy in collaboration with the Plant Powered School Meals Coalition.

During the pilot program, milk selection in participating schools increased by 18.6 percent, with 35.6 percent of selections being soy milk. The decrease in average daily greenhouse gas emissions by 17.4 percent highlights the success of promoting dairy alternatives in schools. According to the Coalition for Healthy School Food, NYC schools have seen a significant decrease in food emissions and a shift to more plant-based menus, resulting in overall environmental benefits.