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Meal Pattern Minute: Flavoring Milk

July 24, 2026

Trying to make milk a little more exciting? You’re not alone. Many Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) operators ask whether adding flavored syrup to unflavored milk is allowed and if it still counts toward a reimbursable meal or snack. The answer is simple once you know one important rule.   

Tune in to this Meal Pattern minute as Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, explains exactly when flavored milk is creditable, so you can serve milk with confidence. Transcript provided below.   

Transcript: The answer is that it depends. If you're serving children ages six and up, then yes you can flavor milk with syrup, straws and powders. If you're serving children ages 1 through 5, then no you cannot serve flavored milk as part of a reimbursable meal or snack in the CACFP. You must serve unflavored milk to this age group.  

Staying current with CACFP milk requirements helps protect your program and ensures children receive nutritious, reimbursable meals. Explore the resources below and keep tuning in to 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, is credited in the CACFP.  
  • Child Nutrition Today Magazine (2025-2026)
    • In this free online resource, you’ll find five fun ways to encourage children to drink their milk.  
    • Meal Pattern Minute Library 
      Explore short videos that answer common CACFP meal pattern questions.  
  • 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.  

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