A government minister has confirmed there are no immediate plans to expand the national Nursery Milk Scheme to include dairy-free milk alternatives, reaffirming the programme's current focus on cow's milk.
Scientific Review Informs Policy Stance
The decision follows a comprehensive review by scientific advisory committees, which identified potential nutritional risks in substituting cow's milk with plant-based products for young children. The committees cautioned that such substitutions could lead to a higher sugar intake and reduced access to essential minerals and vitamins crucial for early development.
This review, which underpins the current policy, was a key factor in the minister's confirmation, made on Wednesday 19 November 2025.
What the Nursery Milk Scheme Currently Covers
Presently, the scheme only permits reimbursement for two specific products: cows' milk and infant formula that is based on cows' milk. For children aged one to five who are not on a fully plant-based diet, the official advice is that whole or semi-skimmed cows' milk is the preferable choice.
While excluded from the government scheme, the scientific committees did acknowledge that certain plant-based drinks can be acceptable in a child's diet. Fortified and unsweetened almond, oat, and soya drinks were mentioned, with soya being singled out as the preferred non-dairy option due to its higher protein content.
Implications for Parents and Nurseries
This clarification means that parents and childcare providers seeking reimbursement for milk for nursery-aged children must continue to provide cow's milk. The government's position reinforces established child nutrition guidelines, prioritising the intake of specific nutrients readily available in dairy products during the critical early years.
The ruling highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing dietary preferences and allergies with public health recommendations for the nation's youngest citizens.
