The Dairy Alliance, a nonprofit funded by dairy farm families in the Southeast, has launched the first-in-the-nation Udderly Cold Portable Milk Dispenser in Tennessee, marking a significant innovation in school milk service. The system, unveiled at John Sevier Middle School in Kingsport, is designed to keep milk at a consistent 35 degrees Fahrenheit, enhancing flavor and encouraging students to drink more milk. The dispenser holds up to 25 gallons of bulk milk bags and can dispense up to 400 eight-ounce servings before rotation is needed, reducing waste and improving efficiency.
The initiative is funded by an Endowment Grant from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Local leaders, including Commissioner of Agriculture Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M., a 10th-generation Tennessee dairy farmer, emphasized the benefits for both students and farmers. "Milk dispensers in schools are a win for students and farmers alike," Hatcher said. "Dispensers keep milk fresh and high-quality, reduce waste, and help schools serve the best possible milk to students every day."
Farrah Newberry, CEO of The Dairy Alliance, highlighted the program's role in supporting student health and sustainable nutrition. "By providing an innovative way of delivering dairy milk directly to students, we help schools incorporate nutritious dairy into daily meals and encourage them to build lifelong healthy habits," she said. The dispenser allows students to pour their own milk, and officials hope this will increase consumption, particularly among teenage girls who need calcium for bone health.
Jennifer Walker, RD, Kingsport City School Nutrition Director, noted that milk is the top source of calcium for children and teens. "I worry they're not drinking enough milk during the years when their bones need it most," she said. "That's why we placed the new milk dispensers in schools—to encourage all students to enjoy milk with their reimbursable meal." Dr. R. Andrew True, Assistant Superintendent of Kingsport City Schools, expressed gratitude to The Dairy Alliance, Udderly Cold, and all partners for bringing the system to the district.
The ribbon cutting drew community attendees and highlighted the broader impact of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Endowment Grant. Hardin County Schools in Savannah, TN, has also implemented the dispenser at Northside Elementary School. This innovative approach is expanding access to and consumption of milk across the state. For more information about The Dairy Alliance, visit https://thedairyalliance.com or follow them on Facebook or Instagram @TheDairyAlliance.
By bringing real dairy milk directly to students, The Dairy Alliance enhances access to healthy beverages, encourages balanced nutrition, and supports overall wellness, demonstrating how innovative programs can make a tangible difference in school communities.
