Information about milk has been the topic of opposing viewpoints in this paper recently. Sharon Mack (BDN, May 4) thoughtfully discussed the role of milk in a healthful diet. A representative of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals responded with the dangers of dairy (BDN, May 10). It is no wonder the public is sometimes confused about nutrition.

How could a food that has held a prominent place in Food Guides issued by the country’s leading nutrition scientists for more than a century be dangerous? It is true that milk may be an allergen for a very few children and some adults are lactose intolerant because they do not have the enzyme that digests lactose. But we question some of the information in the letter from PETA.

Milk and milk products provide a unique and powerful nutrient package of calcium, potassium, vitamin D and six other essential nutrients that help build strong bones and bodies. In spite of the country’s obesity epidemic, many Americans today fall short on calcium and other key nutrients including potassium, vitamin A and magnesium.

In the new Pyramid and in the 2005 Dietary Guidelines, three servings of low-fat dairy foods each day are recommended because dairy foods are among the best sources of these nutrients. And they taste so good ? cheese on pizza, ice cream treats, yogurt with fruit ? even cold skim milk.

Katherine O. Musgrave

Registered dietitian

Orono