Review of Nutri-Grade Framework to Appropriately Reflect Nutritional Value of Plain Milk and Distinguish Natural Dairy Fats from Unhealthy Additives
Ministry of HealthSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the Nutri-Grade framework’s application to plain milk and its availability in schools based on fat content. Mr Gabriel Lam inquired about distinguishing natural dairy fats from additives and why certain schools cannot sell full-fat milk. Minister Ong Ye Kung explained that Nutri-Grade labels prioritize lower saturated fat to prevent childhood obesity, though full-fat milk remains available in preschools. He noted that while beverages with unhealthy additives are restricted in schools, older students are encouraged to choose reduced-fat milk meeting Nutri-Grade A or B guidelines. Minister Ong Ye Kung stated that the Ministry of Health and Health Promotion Board will review feedback regarding making full-fat milk available for older or underweight students.
Transcript
28 Mr Gabriel Lam asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether the Nutri-Grade framework appropriately reflects the nutritional value of plain milk for young children; (b) why certain schools are unable to sell milk due to its fat content or absence of the Healthier Choice Symbol; and (c) whether the policy will be reviewed to distinguish between natural dairy fats and unhealthy additives.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Nutri-Grade grade sugar and saturated fat levels within a beverage category. So, within the category, say milk, we encourage the public to consume those with A and B ratings, instead of those with C and D ratings. The Nutri-Grade measures spur industry reformulation and enable consumers to make healthier, informed choices.
Specifically for milk, full cream versions contain more saturated fat, the excessive consumption of which contributes to higher risk of childhood obesity, which can persist into adulthood. In line with dietary recommendations for young children aged one to two years, full-fat plain milk is still served in preschools. For older children, we encourage them to consume reduced-fat milk that is either Nutri-Grade A or B or meet the Healthier Choice Symbol guidelines and has the same beneficial nutrients as full-fat milk but with less saturated fat.
Beverages containing unhealthy additives, such as non-nutritive sweeteners, are not served in schools even if they are Nutri-Grade B, as they may condition palates to sweet foods.
Some members of the public have provided feedback that notwithstanding full-fat milk contains more saturated fat, we should make them available in school and allow students to make the choice. There are also underweight students who prefer full-fat milk. The Ministry of Health and Health Promotion Board noted this feedback and will continue to review our nutrition policies to ensure they remain relevant and evidence based.