The Prairie Farms Family of Companies Responds to the Signing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act

MEDIA STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EDWARDSVILLE, IL — January 19, 2026 — The Prairie Farms Family of Companies is applauding the signing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, which returns whole and 2% milk to school meal programs.

“Milk is a nutrition powerhouse, and whole and 2% milk offer wholesome options kids enjoy,” said Matt McClelland, CEO of the Prairie Farms Family of Companies. “This is a positive step for school meal programs and for families who want nutritious choices that feel familiar and taste great.”

Rick Beaman, President of Hiland Dairy, added, “When kids enjoy what they’re served, they’re more likely to drink it, and that means they benefit from the nourishment dairy provides to support growing bodies and active minds.”

“This matters beyond the cafeteria,” McClelland said. “It supports school nutrition professionals who work hard to serve balanced meals and helps families feel confident in the options available at school. It also supports America’s dairy farm families, the hardworking people behind every carton. The Prairie Farms Family of Companies is proud to deliver high-quality milk to schools and communities as this initiative is implemented.”

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About Hiland Dairy Foods

A leading farmer-owned dairy foods company, Hiland Dairy is headquartered in Springfield, Missouri. Their widely loved products include milk, dips, cottage cheese, flavored milk, sour cream, yogurt, ice cream, butter, cheese, and eggnog. In addition, Hiland Dairy has expanded beyond dairy and produces and distributes various other beverages, such as Red Diamond Tea, lemonade, and fresh juices. Hiland employs 4,000 throughout Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Hiland's milk comes from our farmers-owners just miles from their processing plants, where our milk goes from the farm to the shelves within 48 hours. Learn more at www.hilanddairy.com/company/media-center/

About the Prairie Farms Family of Companies

Prairie Farms is one of the largest and most successful dairy cooperatives operating in the Midwest and South. The cooperative includes more than 500 farm families, 7,000 associates, 48 manufacturing plants, and over 100 distribution facilities, with annual sales exceeding $4.69 billion. Prairie Farms is a nationally recognized leader in the dairy industry, setting the standard for milk flavor innovations and producing award-winning milk, cheese, and cultured dairy products. With headquarters in Edwardsville, Ill., Prairie Farms’ distribution footprint covers over 30 percent of the United States. For more information, visit www.prairiefarms.com.