ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- New York officials want the state to be part of a pilot program to test the cost-effectiveness of serving Greek yogurt in school meal programs.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is starting a pilot program that could lead to more Greek yogurt in schools as early as April. State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel Aubertine has written the USDA urging that New York be chosen for that program.

The Greek yogurt business has been booming nationwide and in New York. Two of the largest Greek yogurt producers, Chobani and Fage, have production facilities in upstate New York and buy tons of milk from dairy farmers in the region.

Sen. Charles Schumer says New York's participation would boost nutrition for students and help the state's dairy farmers.

Copyright 2013 The AP.