Why are only water, milk, and 100% juice permitted for elementary and middle school students under these Guidelines?

Younger children’s ability to choose among a broad spectrum of food and beverage options, balancing treats with healthier items across meal and snack occasions, is more limited than for older children and adults. Outside the school environment, parents and other adult caregivers can provide needed guidance. During the school day, children need and parents want added guidance so kids can make better decisions. Limiting choices in school for children of these ages achieves this. As such, younger children are only offered water, fat-free or low-fat milk and 100% juice. This meets the needs of young children for hydration and nutrition while managing their caloric consumption.