The UK government is being encouraged to follow Wales' ‘positive example’ by enrolling more schools across the country in milk provision schemes.

This comes as new research from the School and Nursery Milk Alliance (SNMA) highlights Wales as a leader in school milk provision, with an average of 98 servings per pupil per year under the School Milk Subsidy Scheme, led by Defra.

England, last year’s leader, now ranks second with 93 servings, while Scotland trails behind with 80.

Wales stands out among UK nations by offering free milk to all Key Stage One children, rather than just subsidising it.

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The research coincides with September 25, World School Milk Day 2024, which celebrates the benefits of milk in schools.

SNMA chair Jon Thornes met with farming minister Daniel Zeichner to discuss how the dairy sector and the government can collaborate with schools to ensure more children have access to milk.

Thornes emphasised that by encouraging milk consumption in schools, children's oral health would improve, potentially saving the NHS millions through preventative healthcare.

Despite these benefits, millions of children still miss out due to a lack of awareness about the government’s milk schemes.

“It is heartening to see that so many people across the UK believe it is important for school children to have access to free or subsidised milk,” said Mr Thornes.

"Providing milk in schools is not just about nutrition—it's about combatting child poverty and supporting children's educational attainment.

"We know that children who are well-nourished perform better in school, and milk plays a key role in keeping them focused and healthy."

Mr Thornes urged the UK government to expand school participation in these milk schemes.

"This is a crucial step in ensuring that as many children as possible can benefit from healthy milk while at school creating brighter futures for both our children and our nation."