By Jamie Martin
June is Dairy Month, and the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is celebrating with the “Dairy Runs Deep” campaign. The campaign honours the major role dairy plays in the lives of American families, local communities, and the U.S. economy.
More than 94% of U.S. dairy farms are family-owned, many of them passed down through generations. These family businesses, from small-scale producers to regional brands, keep dairy traditions alive while feeding their communities.
Dairy also powers over 3 million American jobs. From farms to transport to processing facilities, dairy supports $198 billion in wages across the country. These are local jobs in all 50 states, delivering dairy products at home and abroad.
Economically, the industry contributes more than $779 billion annually, strengthening rural towns and small businesses. Through the IDFA Foundation, dairy also gives back.
In FY 2024, the Foundation held three community events with 120 volunteers and donated 90,000 pounds of food and $26,000. These efforts helped deliver over 133,000 meals to families in need.
“Dairy is a uniquely American industry—rooted in generations of family tradition, community, culture and economic strength,” the IDFA shared in its campaign.
Dairy is also essential to health. Products like milk, cheese, and yogurt provide 13 key nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, and potassium. These foods promote strong bones and help lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Dairy also connects generations through shared recipes and everyday meals. It remains a crucial part of American culture, delivering both comfort and nutrition.
To learn more about dairy’s impact, visit the IDFA Foundation website or explore the “Dairy Delivers” tool for state-level insights.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm
Categories: National