This article on the rising price of milk is a week old, but I’m just getting to it now. It shows the unintended consequences of stupid government policies, although it doesn’t try to do that. But that’s not what I want to focus on. Instead, I’m amused by the lede.
Record-high milk prices are stinging Americans at the dairy case, just as millions of thirsty school children are returning to classes.
First, that’s a quaint indirect use of “for the children”. I’m just frustrated that the basic economic truth doesn’t show up. These thirsty children have many options to satisfy their thirst. Some are good, some are bad, but there is a plethora of choices. Those who can’t afford or don’t want to pay for higher-priced milk can drink something else¹. This is basic economics, which is probably why it’s so readily ignored.
¹ We’re not going to delve into the myth that cow’s milk is the only, or even best, source of calcium, among other nutrients. Right?
High milk prices? But we have a milk gouging law in New York!