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Meal Pattern Minute: Added Sugars in Flavored Milk

August 7, 2026

Flavored milk often comes up when Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) operators are looking for ways to encourage older children to drink milk while still meeting program requirements. A common question is if there is a specific added sugar limit that applies when flavored milk is served to children ages 6 and older. Understanding the difference between CACFP requirements and recommended best practices helps programs stay compliant while supporting healthier menu choices.  

In this Meal Pattern Minute, Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, explains what the CACFP requires when it comes to added sugars in flavored milk and shares practical guidance to help operators balance compliance and best practices. 

Transcript: The answer is no. There is no added sugar limit when serving whole, reduced-fat, low-fat, or fat-free milk to children ages 6 and up. A best practice is to serve unflavored milk when possible, and if planning to serve flavored milk, aim for no more than 10 grams of added sugars per 8 ounces of milk.  

Serving milk that meets CACFP requirements while supporting healthy habits is an important part of menu planning. Use these resources to guide your decisions and keep watching Meal Pattern Minute for answers to your CACFP meal pattern questions.  

  • USDA CACFP Crediting Handbook
    • Provides detailed guidance on how fluid milk, including flavored milk, are credited in the CACFP.  
  • Final Rule: Expanding Fluid Milk Options in Child Nutrition Programs 
  • Recommended Webinar  
  • Milk in the CACFP ($) 
    • Milk is a star player in the CACFP meal pattern. It's required at breakfast, lunch and supper and may even make a guest appearance at snack. Learn which types of milk are allowed in CACFP, how much to serve, and when.  
  • Recipe Suggestion 
    • Try the refreshing Berry Blast Smoothie for a CACFP-friendly breakfast option packed with fruity flavor and natural sweetness that kids love. It’s an easy way to serve creditable fruit and milk components at breakfast. 

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