Dairy continues to be safe and nutritionally vital to both our diets and our economy
Like all other days of the year, local dairy farm families are working hard to make sure the milk their cows are producing gets to the processors and on to retailers for consumers to purchase with confidence.
Learn more below about the steps dairy farmers go through to ensure high quality, safe milk.
Consuming dairy foods to nourish our bodies, today and every day
Nutrient-rich dairy foods not only help children and adults build healthy diets; they also contribute to healthier lives. Studies show dairy foods, as part of a healthy diet, improve overall diet quality, and may contribute to better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
A standard 8-oz. serving of milk provides excellent sources of nine essential nutrients, making it one of the most nutrient-dense foods. This means it provides a high level of quality nutrients compared to its calories.
Learn more below about the important role dairy plays in a healthy diet.
Ensuring dairy gets to those in need
During these uncertain times and mandated closures, we are working closely with school nutrition directors and food banks to ensure that dairy is available to those that need it the most.
Through our Special Alternative Feeding Grants, we are seeing that funds are responsibly awarded to meal programs providing milk to children during this time. Grants are being used for the purchase of sustainable items that will be used for future programs (summer meals, breakfast, afterschool supper) during summer break and once school resumes. If you would like to learn more, please contact Youth Wellness.
We understand many local food banks and pantries are in great need of supplies during this time. We are working with food banks to try to ensure access to dairy foods for the food insecure. If you would like more information, please contact Food and Nutrition Outreach.