Milk Consumption in the Nation's Schools

Excerpts from the report Introduction: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of certain factors such as price and frequency of service on milk consumption in the Nation's schools. It is part of a broad program of research designed to expand the market for agricultural commodities. Comparative data were obtained on milk consumption for schools participating and those not participating in the School Lunch and Special Milk Programs during March 1957. Data were tabulated by population density of the areas served by schools, size of school in terms of enrollment, and grades taught, that is, elementary, secondary, and combination grades. In tabulating the survey data by these characteristics, it was assumed there would be differences in pupils' milk consumption (1) in the less densely populated areas compared with the metropolitan areas; (2) in large and small schools; and (3) according to age, as indicated by elementary grades and secondary grades. It was anticipated that the study would either substantiate or negate the hypothesis that differences would occur among pupils attending schools under such varied conditions. Findings are based on a representative national sample of 4,347 of the approximately 106,000 public elementary and secondary schools. Sample selection, collection, and tabulation of data were performed by the Bureau of the Census for the Department of Agriculture.