Types of Milk and/or Its Substitutes Given to Children (6–36 Months) in Nurseries in Poland: Data from the Research and Education Project “Eating Healthy, Growing Healthy”

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the types of milk and/or its substitutes given to children (aged 6–36 months) in nurseries in Poland. Methods: The study was conducted in 211 nurseries across Poland. The supply of milk and its substitutes was checked in ten-day menus and inventory documents. In total, 211 ten-day menus and 2110 daily inventory reports were analyzed. Additionally, data were obtained by interviews with day-care center (DCC) directors and/or staff responsible for nutrition. Results: Compared to non-public nurseries, public ones were characterized by a higher average number of children, most often maintained their own kitchens, and charged a lower financial fee. Public DCCs also more often employed dietitians. The type of milk and its substitutes offered to children in nurseries was dependent on the age of the children and type of DCC. In a larger percentage of public DCCs infants received a milk formula, and in smaller percentage they received breast milk. This regularity also occurred in older children’s diets (13–36 months). In toddlers’ diets in public nurseries, cow’s milk was more common. The share of other milk substitutes in the nutrition of children from both age groups was negligible. Conclusion: The types of milk given to children in nurseries in Poland varied and depended on the age of children and the type of DCCs. It is necessary to provide education to DCC staff regarding the type of milk recommended for children under one year of age