World School Milk Day is an annual event celebrated globally on the last Wednesday of September to highlight the benefits and success of school milk programs.

First launched in 2000, the event is promoted by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and has since grown into a widely recognised celebration.

A look back: The history of school milk in the UK

The UK's history with school milk stretches back over a century, beginning with the Provision of Meals Act in 1906. This act acknowledged the importance of school food in helping undernourished children to improve engagement with their education. Milk was identified as a key food source to prevent malnutrition.

Following the Great Depression and the World Wars, childhood malnutrition became a great concern, urging the introduction and development of school milk schemes.

The role of milk in children's diets

Milk and dairy products continue to be essential components of children's diets today. A single carton of school milk offers substantial nutritional benefits for children, helping them grow and thrive.

For children aged 4-6 years old, one carton provides:

- 52% of their recommended daily calcium intake

- 59% of their recommended iodine intake

- 100% of their recommended vitamin B12 intake

- 59% of their recommended vitamin B2 intake

For older children aged 7-10 years, one carton offers:

- 42% of their recommended daily calcium intake

- 53% of their recommended iodine intake

- 100% of their recommended vitamin B12 intake

- 47% of their recommended vitamin B2 intake

In addition to these vital nutrients, milk supplies children with energy and protein, supporting their growth and development.

A growing celebration

World School Milk Day is celebrated in many countries, with the number of activities increasing each year. Schools and milk providers have the flexibility to celebrate in a variety of ways, whether through national or regional events or more intimate, individual school activities.