California Ag Network

Tag: California Milk Advisory Board

  • California Cheeses Bring Home 18 Awards at US Championship Cheese and Dairy Product Contest

    Cow’s milk cheese and dairy processors that use the Real California Milk seal brought home 18 awards during the 2025 annual biennial event held by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association.

    California cheesemakers won a total of 18 awards – with Real California cow’s milk cheeses and dairy products bringing home 4 Best of Class, 8 second place and 6 third place awards in this year’s judging. Highlights from these wins include:

    • Central Valley Cheese/Karoun, Turlock –7 awards, Bulgarian Style Yogurt (Best of Class), Karoun Honey Vanilla Yogurt (Best of Class), Karoun Labne (Best of Class), Gopi Lowfat Yogurt (Second Award), Parmalat Cremoso Creamy Strawberry Honey Yogurt (Second Award), Karoun Whole Milk Yogurt (Third Award), Karoun Honey Yogurt (Third Award).
    • Cowgirl Creamery, Petaluma – 2 awards, Hop Along (Best of Class), Wagon Wheel (Second Award).
    • Crystal Creamery, Modesto– 1 award, Cottage Cheese (Third Award).
    • Dairy Farmers of America, Turlock–1 award, California Gold Mozzarella (Second Award).
    • Hilmar Cheese, Hilmar–2 awards, Hickory Smoked Cheddar (Third Award), Hilmar PROfraction Beta (Second Award)
    • Joseph Gallo Farms, Atwater –3 awards, String Cheese (Second Award), Mozzarella-Part Skim (Second Award), Monterey Jack (Third Award).
    • Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co., Pt. Reyes – 2 awards, Point Reyes Fennel Blue (Second Award), Point Reyes TomaRashi (Third Award).

    In total, 7 Real California cow’s milk cheese and dairy companies won awards for products made with Real California Milk from the state’s more than 1,000 family dairy farms using some of the most sustainable dairy practices in the world.

    California is the second largest cheese producing state in the nation, responsible for more than 2.4 billion pounds of cheese each year. Real California cheeses and dairy products are available at retailers throughout the U.S., Mexico, and Asia. For more information, visit: RealCaliforniaMilk.com.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world.

  • Student Ambassadors to Share California Dairy Messages With International Audience

    Anissa Borges of Tulare and Dayana Limon Santiago of Wasco have been selected to represent the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) in Thailand during the 2025 CMAB International Internship Program.

    Anissa Borges

    Borges and Santiago were both chosen based on academic achievement, connection to the California dairy industry, and willingness to travel abroad to learn more about international dairy sales and marketing. The goal of the International Internship Program is to provide young agriculture and dairy college students with an opportunity to learn about dairy foods and marketing in the international marketplace, with a focus on developing leaders who will serve on dairy industry boards, work in dairy foods processing, or in sales or marketing.

    Over the six-week period, Borges and Santiago will spend time with the in-country CMAB marketing team in Thailand to gain a better understanding of markets, consumer buying habits, and promotional efforts on behalf of California’s dairy industry.

    “California currently accounts for around 33 percent of all U.S. dairy exports so international trade is essential for our continued growth. Over the last decade and a half, the CMAB has worked closely with partners in Thailand to develop markets for California dairy products. This program is focused on providing insight into international dairy marketing for future leaders,” said Glenn Millar, Director of International Business Development for the CMAB.

    Borges is currently working towards her B.S in Agribusiness at California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, where she is involved with the Dairy Club. Borges was an active member of FFA, where she showed dairy cattle. She also served as District 9 Dairy Princess during her Junior year of high school. Upon completion of the internship program, she will continue to advocate for the dairy industry and hopes to incorporate this passion into her career.

    Santiago also is attending California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, where she is working towards a B.S in Agricultural Science. She plans to pursue her M.S in Agricultural Education and become an agricultural educator. She is currently a social media manager for the Pacific Coast Coalition, where she creates and manages content highlighting dairy industry trends, innovations and sustainability efforts.

    California is the nation’s leading milk producer, and makes more butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk than any other state. California is the second-largest producer of cheese and yogurt. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which certifies they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board
    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world. Connect with the CMAB at RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube, Tik Tok, Instagram, and Pinterest.

  • California Dairy Students Partner With California Dairy Families to Raise Milk Donations For Families In Need

    One in eight Californians currently struggle with food insecurity, with milk being one of the most requested but least donated items at food banks. The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) recently worked with student dairy advocates from California State University, Chico (Chico State), California State University, Fresno (Fresno State), California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), and Modesto Junior College (MJC) to address this deficit by hosting the second annual Real California Milk Intercollegiate Give-A-Gallon Challenge.

    Using 100-gallon donation commitments from the CMAB as an incentive, students in each area shared information about the need for milk and options for donating through their social media channels. Each team coordinated donations through local and campus milk drives, in person and virtually. As a part of the Real California Milk CADAIRY4GOOD program, this initiative spotlights ongoing commitment by California dairy families to increasing access to nutritious foods.

    “My passion has always been rooted in the dairy industry, which is why I am so motivated to get milk off of the shelves and into our communities. I’m so thankful for all of the supporters of our milk drive year after year. My favorite part is arriving to a food bank with all of our milk to drop off and seeing everyone’s faces light up,” said Anthony Agueda, California dairy farmer and Fresno State Ag Business student.

    Megan Donaldson, Chico State student and Dairy Science Club president, noted, “Everyone deserves to have quality milk products to enjoy in their home, and this initiative is a wonderful way to provide that. Chico State Dairy Science Club and Chico State Organic Dairy Unit members are proud to represent this amazing industry by donating gallons of Real California Milk to those in need.”

    “Participating in this competition truly showed a new perspective on what food accessibility looks like in our community. We’re extremely grateful to have participated in this challenge and are excited to bring forth new ideas to next year’s competition,” said Morgan Oliveira, Cal Poly student and Dairy Club secretary.

    “Over the last 4 years MJC has donated almost 3,000 gallons of milk to Stanislaus County with this project. It is heartwarming to know that we have donated 48,000 servings of fresh, California milk to those less fortunate in the Central Valley through our efforts to promote Hunger Awareness in our community,” said Nicole Morris, California dairy farmer and MJC dairy science instructor.

    The initiative raised more than 6,000 gallons of milk with donations distributed to 17 local food banks, including student pantries at Cal Poly, Chico State and Fresno State.

    California is the nation’s leading milk producer, and makes more butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk than any other state. California is the second-largest producer of cheese and yogurt. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which means they are made with milk from the state’s dairy families using some of the most sustainable farming practices in the world.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world. Connect with the CMAB at RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube, Tik Tok, Instagram, X and Pinterest.

  • Petit Pot Takes $100,000 Grand Prize at 2024 Real California Milk Excelerator

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) and VentureFuel announced Petit Pot as the grand prize winner in the 2024 Real California Milk (RCM) Excelerator product innovation competition. The award was presented during the Future of Dairy Expo and Final Pitch Event on November 14th in San Ramon, CA, where four new finalists were also selected to compete for the 2025 grand prize.

    This competitive program is designed to drive value-added dairy innovation using California milk, ultimately strengthening the industry by providing startups with access to sustainably produced milk as well as resources, expertise, and non-dilutive funding to grow their businesses. As the winner of the 2024 RCM Excelerator, Petit Pot will receive $100,000 worth of marketing support from the CMAB to continue scaling their dairy-based desserts in California and beyond.

    Through the Real California Milk Excelerator, early-stage companies are able to leverage the power of Real California Dairy through access to:

    • Tailored content and resources specific to the dairy industry, including access to quality, sustainably sourced milk
    • Mentorship from leading experts across product development, marketing, distribution, and sales
    • Extensive exposure to industry stakeholders

    Petit Pot was one of four finalists in the 2023 RCM Excelerator event. The company was selected for its innovation in product packaging with the introduction of a paper dessert cup to further drive its commitment to sustainability. Since being selected for the 2023 cohort, founder Maxime Pouvreau has scaled up production in California and demonstrated his company’s tremendous potential for growth. The CMAB selected the company as the Grand Prize Winner based on the company’s $2MM+ in retail sales over a one-year period and rapidly expanding presence through 6,000 stores across the country. The $100,000 grand prize will provide marketing support for initiatives like on-pack promotions, digital and instant redeemable coupons, product sampling, and in-store signage to further drive brand awareness.

    Headquartered in Emeryville, Calif, Petit Pot was founded by French-born pastry chef Maxime Pouvreau and specializes in single-serve gourmet desserts crafted with dairy and other organic ingredients.  The company has seen rapid growth since it first participated in the Excelerator’s snack-focused competition in 2020.

    “We’re thrilled for Petit Pot to be recognized as the top choice in this year’s Real California Milk Excelerator competition,” said Maxime Pouvreau, Petit Pot’s Founder. “Wellness-focused snacking is on the rise, and more people are looking for indulgent, yet balanced, options. Petit Pot offers a rich, creamy treat that satisfies those cravings without compromise. With the CMAB’s support, we look forward to bringing our French-inspired desserts to even more people across the country.”

    The Real California Milk Excelerator was established by CMAB to drive transformational growth for innovative dairy products that can deliver value both to consumers and to the dairy community. At a time when venture funding for food and beverage startups has slowed, programs like the Excelerator play a crucial role in bridging the gap for high-potential food and beverage startups.

    “Innovation is the lifeblood of any brand and any product category. Our continued investment in amplifying products in the value-added space supports the sustainability of our industry while providing consumers with more options for tapping into the unique benefits that come from only real milk and dairy,” said John Talbot, CEO of the CMAB.

    At the 2024 Future of Dairy Expo, attendees also experienced product tastings and exhibitions from 20+ pioneering dairy startups, and witnessed the selection of four new finalists chosen by the CMAB from this year’s incubator cohort during the live pitch event:

    • Pluff, a fluffy protein dessert with high nutritional value, represented by its founder, Dylan Paul;
    • Projo*, an instant coffee blend infused with dairy and collagen, represented by Charbel Mawad, founder and CEO;
    • Smearcase, a cottage-cheese-based ice cream, represented by founder and CEO, Joe Rotondo;
    • And Todo, a meal replacement shake with a balanced nutritional content, represented by founder, Niket Soni.

    “The passion and creativity we’ve seen from this year’s Grand Prize Winner and Finalists exemplify the bold future of California dairy,” said Fred Schonenberg, CEO of VentureFuel. “From sustainable practices to breakthrough flavors, these founders are redefining what dairy can be. We’re thrilled to support their journeys as they open new possibilities and help drive California’s dairy industry’s continued growth and innovation.”

    The event offered industry stakeholders an opportunity to engage with products poised to shape the future of dairy, while also showcasing the commitment of California’s dairy farmers to sustainable practices.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com,Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, X, Instagram and Pinterest.

    About VentureFuel, Inc.

    Founded in 2014, VentureFuel is an independent innovation advisory that helps the world’s best organizations ignite change through startup collaborations. Its innovation programs include Diagnostics, Corporate Accelerators and Commercial Pilots; and focus on solving clients’ biggest challenges by driving greater efficiencies; closing strategic capability gaps; and identifying emerging business models. VentureFuel provides organizations like Hershey’s, Comcast, Dick’s Sporting Goods, AARP Foundation and the State of California the tools to drive transformative change with less risk, more speed, and greater proximity to the consumer than traditional innovation models. Learn more at: www.venturefuel.net, LinkedIn, X, and Instagram. You can listen to The VentureFuel Visionaries podcast on Apple, Spotify, Simplecast or wherever you get your podcasts.

  • Real California Milk Excelerator Innovation Competition Announces Health and Wellness Cohort

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), in partnership with VentureFuel, has announced the eight finalists for the 6th Real California Milk Excelerator during the program’s kick-off in Davis, CA.

    This year’s competition, centered on health and wellness, focuses on harnessing the nutritional benefits of real dairy and features startups with products designed to improve digestion, boost cognitive function, provide balanced nutrition, support hydration, and deliver sustainable, convenient solutions for busy lifestyles.

    The cohort includes:

    • Smearcase(Dover, Del.) – Smearcase is the first cottage cheese-based ice cream on the market infused with collagen. Featuring the most protein per pint of ice cream at 40 grams, this ‘better-for-you’ ice cream does not use artificial gums or sweeteners.
    • Stellify/Insymmetry LLC(Yorba Linda, Calif.) – Stellify is a low-calorie, functional, dairy-based energy and wellness shot made with reduced-fat lactose-free milk for lactose-intolerant individuals. It features natural caffeine from coffee cherry, theobromine, and L-theanine.
    • Drink Todo(Grand Island, NY) – Drink Todo is a high protein, high fiber breakfast smoothie designed to provide a convenient and nutritious solution for busy lifestyles. Featuring 25 grams of milk protein, 6 grams of dietary fiber, and enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, Todo offers a complete meal in every bottle.
    • Voyager Milk(Boca Raton, Fla.) – Voyager Milk is the only USDA organic whole milk for toddlers, produced in a convenient stick-pack format.
    • Point ReyesFarmstead Cheese Co. (Point Reyes, Calif.) – Curd Cup is a premium 6 ounce single serving cottage cheese with global savory flavors. This dairy-rich snack is a clean-eating option with protein, calcium and good fat to keep your energy going.
    • Pluff(Toronto, Canada) – Pluff is a high-protein dessert primarily made from a combination of Greek yogurt, heavy cream, cottage cheese, and whey protein blended and whipped together.
    • Projo(Los Gatos, Calif.) – Projo is an instant coffee blend of organic Arabica coffee, marine collagen, organic coffee fruit extract, digestive enzymes, and 100% whole milk. This coffee boosts energy and supports health and wellness.
    • TruJoy Yogurt (Austin, Texas) – TruJoy is an elevated frozen Greek yogurt made with simple, natural and timeless ingredients. It boasts a robust nutritional profile, with protein and probiotics, as well as a clean label, appealing to the ingredient conscious.

    In addition to a cash stipend, participants will gain access to a program of elite mentorship from successful founders, investors, leading corporate executives, and experts across design, marketing, sales, manufacturing, distribution, farming, and processing.

    John Talbot, CEO, California Milk Advisory Board

    “The Real California Milk Excelerator continues to push the boundaries of dairy innovation, and this year’s focus on health and wellness is particularly exciting,” John Talbot, CEO of CMAB said. “We are committed to supporting these startups as they develop and bring their health-focused innovations to market.”

    This year’s program will culminate in an exclusive look at the future of the dairy category during the “Future of Dairy Expo” on November 14 where attendees will be able to meet the cohort, sample their products and hear from experts on key category trends and insights. The event will close with the RCM Excelerator Final Pitch Event and finalist selection where a panel of judges will award up to $500,000 worth of total value prizing.

    “We are thrilled to announce the latest cohort for the Real California Milk Excelerator,” Fred Schonenberg, Founder and CEO of VentureFuel said. “Together, we are unlocking the full potential of dairy to enhance well-being and pave the way for the future.”

    In addition to the primary cohort, this year the Excelerator has expanded to include an incubator designed to foster the development of early-stage and student-led dairy innovations. Seven companies will join the inaugural incubator cohort, including Mighty Smooth, Sauce Plus, and BuffMoo in affiliation with Fresno State University; Joelato and  Moove Hydration in affiliation with Cal Poly San Luis Obispo; Sol in affiliation with Chapman University; and Yo’s Froyo Bites.

    For more information about the cohort visit the Real California Milk Excelerator.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board
    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

    About VentureFuel
    Founded in 2014, VentureFuel is an independent innovation advisory firm that helps the world’s best organizations commercialize innovation to ignite change. Its innovation programs solve clients’ biggest challenges via startup collaborations. VentureFuel provides organizations like Comcast NBCUniversal, Dick’s Sporting Goods and the State of California the tools to accelerate transformation with less risk, more speed, and greater proximity to the consumer than traditional innovation models. Learn more at: www.venturefuel.net, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. You can listen to The VentureFuel Visionaries podcast on Apple, Spotify Simplecast or wherever you get your podcasts.

  • Real California Cheeses Bring Home 31 Awards at American Cheese Society Meeting

    Cow’s milk cheese and dairy processors that use the Real California Milk seal brought home 31 awards during the 2024 annual cheese competition held by the American Cheese Society (ACS) in Buffalo, New York.

    The American Cheese Society recognizes the finest cheeses and dairy products made in the Americas. A total of 1,596 cheese and cultured dairy products were entered into the competition. Cheeses made with California cow’s milk had a strong showing this year in a field of 142 organizations representing North America.

    California cheesemakers won a total of 53 awards – with Real California cow’s milk cheeses bringing home 31 prizes: 8 first place, 11 second place and 12 third place awards in this year’s judging. Highlights from these wins include:

    • Central Valley Cheese/Karoun, Turlock – 6 awards, 1st place each for Smoked String Cheese and Honey Yogurt; 2nd each for Labne, Whole Milk Yogurt and Yogurt Thirumala; and 3rd for Marinated String Cheese.
    • Marquez Brothers International, San Jose – 5 awards, 1st place each for Mango Drinkable Yogurt and Guava Drinkable Yogurt; 2ndplace for Strawberry Drinkable Yogurt; and 3rd place each for Strawberry Banana Drinkable Yogurt and Piña Colada Drinkable Yogurt.
    • Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Co., Pt. Reyes – 4 awards, 1st place for Toma Truffle; 2nd place for Truffle Brie; and 3rd place each for Bay Blue and Fennel Blue.
    • Marin French Cheese, Petaluma – 3 awards, 2nd place each for Camembert and Petite Breakfast; 3rd place for Petite Truffle.
    • Sierra Nevada Cheese Company, Willows – 3 awards, 1st place for Gina Marie Cream Cheese; 3rd place each for Organic Unsalted Butter and Plain Yogurt.
    • Fiscalini Farmstead, Modesto – 2 awards, 2nd place each for Old World Cheddar and Truffle Cheddar.
    • Rumiano Cheese Company, Crescent City – 2 awards, 2nd place for Dry Jack; 3rd place for Organic Original Ghee.
    • Belfiore Cheese Company, Berkeley – 1 award, 3rd place for Farmer’s Cheese.
    • Bellwether Farmers, Petaluma – 1 award, 1st place for Crème Fraîche.
    • Cheese Bits, Riverbank – 1 award, 3rd place for Wood Smoked Mozzamini Pearls.
    • Cowgirl Creamery, Petaluma – 1 award, 2nd place for Wagon Wheel.
    • Joseph Farms, Atwater – 1 award, 1st place for Monterey Jack.
    • Nicasio Valley Cheese Company, Nicasio – 1 award, 3rd place for Halleck Creek.

    In total, 13 Real California cow’s milk cheese and dairy companies won awards for products made with Real California Milk from the state’s more than 1,100 family dairy farms using some of the most sustainable dairy practices in the world. Sierra Nevada Cheese Company and Bellwether Farms also received awards, four and one respectively, for non-cow’s milk cheeses that do not carry the Real California Milk seal.

    Non cow’s milk California cheesemakers had a strong showing with Laura Chenel picking up seven awards, Cypress Grove and Shooting Star Creamery each winning three, and Central Coast Creamery and Pennyroyal Farm winning two each.

    California is the second largest cheese producing state in the nation, responsible for more than 2.4 billion pounds of cheese. Real California cheeses and dairy products are available at retailers throughout the U.S., Mexico, and Asia. For more information, visit:RealCaliforniaMilk.com. For more information on ACS competition winners and the ACS Conference, go to cheesesociety.org.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world. Connect with the CMAB at RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube,Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

  • Upcoming California Dairy Innovation Short Course Trainings and Conference

    The California Dairy Innovation Center (CDIC) has released the schedule for summer and fall courses as a part of its 2024 training program series for processors, producers, entrepreneurs, and students. The courses, which have no pre-requisites, will be held at a variety of California locations and are open to all participants.

    The schedule of courses includes:

    Advanced Cheesemaking, which will take place July 16-17, 2024, in collaboration with Cal Poly, SLO at the Dairy Products Technology Center in San Luis Obispo, Calif. This program will offer comprehensive instruction on the fundamentals of milk and the cheesemaking processes, with two days of hands-on experience. This course also will include an enriching blend of theory and practical application, designed to enhance skills and knowledge in the art and science of advanced cheesemaking. Registration and more information is available here.

    2nd Annual Innovation Conference and State of the Industry, which will take place September 12, 2024, in collaboration with the Pacific Coast Coalition at Fresno State University in Fresno, Calif. This conference will include presentations on technical and market information. More information is available here.

    Hispanic & Mediterranean Cheeses, which will take place October 8-9, 2024, in collaboration with Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo at the Dairy Products Technology Center. Registration and more information is available here.

    CDIC also shared dates for Q4 and 2025 events, including:

    Tharp and Young on Ice Cream, which will take place December 4-6, 2024, in collaboration with Chapman University at Chapman University in Orange, Calif. Registration and more information is available here.

    The Science of RTD Milk and Coffee Beverages, which will take place January 22-23, 2025, in collaboration with Chapman University at the Ranney Processing Lab at Chapman University. Registration and more information is available here.

    The CDIC also released the 2025 dates for the Dairy Products, Process & Packaging Innovation Conference, which will take place February 18-20, 2025, in collaboration with Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, Dairy Management Inc., USDA, Pacific Coast Coalition, and the California Dairy Research Foundation, at the Cliffs Resort in Shell Beach, Calif. This conference will focus on dairy marketplace innovation, recent enhancements made to dairy processing and packaging and improved marketing. Attendees will hear from today’s leaders and entrepreneurs as they share their insight and experience in today’s dairy industry. Registration and additional information is available here.

    Short Course and conference programs are co-organized with California Milk Advisory Board’s CDIC, with partial funding and contributions from Dairy Management Inc., the USDA’s Pacific Coast Coalition Dairy Business Innovation Initiative (hosted by Fresno State) and CMAB. Programs are subject to change. For more info about the CDIC and its educational opportunities, contact Veronique Lagrange (vlagrange@cmab.net).

    About the California Dairy Innovation Center

    The California Dairy Innovation Center (CDIC) coordinates pre-competitive research and educational training in collaboration with industry, check-off programs, and research/academic institutions in support of a common set of innovation and productivity goals. The CDIC is guided by a Steering Committee that includes California Dairies Inc., California Dairy Research Foundation, California Milk Advisory Board, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Dairy Management Inc., Fresno State University, Hilmar Cheese, Leprino Foods, and UC Davis. More info at: https://www.cdic.net/.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department   of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com,Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

  • Summer Fancy Food Show Showcases Innovative California Dairy Foods

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) will spotlight a diverse selection of innovative and sustainably sourced specialty dairy products at the 2024 Summer Fancy Food show in New York, N.Y. June 23-25, 2024.

    CMAB will sample an assortment of dairy applications including cheese, Hispanic dairy, lassi, desserts, whey-based spirits, and dairy protein puff snacks. California dairy processors in attendance include: Angelo & Franco, Cheese Bits, dosa by Dosa, In Good Hands/CDI, Petite Pot, and Los Altos Foods. Attendees can visit CMAB booth #764 to learn more about products made with milk from California dairy families as well as the 6th Annual RCM Excelerator Open Innovation competition for new product innovation.

    “The specialty food category is important to our California dairy processors who are making some of the most innovative, on-trend cheeses, dairy foods and snacks available. The Summer Fancy Food show is a tremendous outlet to showcase this innovation and sample with food manufacturers, buyers, entrepreneurs and innovators,” said John Talbot, CEO of the CMAB. “California’s award-winning dairy processors and cheesemakers are leading the industry with reliable and consistent products powered by sustainably sourced milk from California’s dairy farm families.”

    California is the nation’s leading milk producer, and makes more butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk than any other state. California is the second-largest producer of cheese and yogurt. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which certifies they are made with milk from the state’s dairy families using some of the most sustainable farming practices in the world.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com,Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Pinterest.

  • California Dairy Families and Raley’s Food for Families Partner to Provide for Families Facing Food Insecurity

    In California, over 3 million households face food insecurity. In honor of June as National Dairy Month, the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) has announced a partnership with Raley’s Food For Families program to deliver milk and dairy foods to nourish families in need.

    Throughout the month of June, California dairy families, through the CMAB, will match customer in-store and online Food For Families donations, dollar-for-dollar (up to $30,000) to provide California dairy products to feeding programs. Prompts with the “Do Good with Dairy” message will be shared through in-store signage and digital communications to alert consumers to the initiative. Part of the Real California Milk CADAIRY4GOOD program and Raley’s well-known Food For Families charitable organization, the partnership is part of an ongoing commitment from both to providing resources to food banks and feeding programs to increase access to nutritious foods.

    California Agriculture Secretary, Karen Ross, shared: “Despite California’s leading position worldwide in food production, far too many people here are food insecure, and we must change that. I applaud the efforts of the California Milk Advisory Board and Raley’s to help feed hungry families.”

    “As a California dairy farmer, it’s important that all families have access to milk, one of the most nutritious foods available,” said Maureen Lemos who, with her husband, dairies in the Waterford area. “This partnership not only provides valuable resources where they are needed most, it also helps to raise awareness of the importance of dairy foods for nourishing families and communities.”

    Milk donations will be distributed to 12 Food For Family partner food banks – Alameda County Community Food Bank, Central California Food Bank, Food Bank for Monterey County, Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano, Food Bank of Northern Nevada, Placer Food Bank, Redwood Empire Food Bank, Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County, Second Harvest of the Greater Valley, and Yolo Food Bank.

    Christina Allen, Raley’s Foodservice Assistant Team Lead, kicks off the Real California Milk + Raley’s Food For Families Do Good with Dairy campaign.

    “Currently, folks experiencing hunger is at an all-time high. Milk donations our community will receive thanks to the charitable efforts of Raley’s and California’s dairy families are truly a blessing,” said Blake Young, President/CEO at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. “We are grateful for this wonderful support.”

    With help from customers, vendors, and Raley’s team members, Raley’s Food For Families has provided millions of meals to local families. Raley’s absorbs all administrative costs, maximizing the impact of every donation.

    “We are excited to partner with Real California Milk to bring dairy products to our food bank partners,” Zoe Edwards, Raley’s Food For Families Operations Specialist. “Year-around we accept donations to Food For Families to help alleviate hunger in our communities. Dairy is an important food group, providing nutrients and additional sources of protein to our food bank partners and their clients.”

    The CADAIRY4GOOD platform focuses on increasing access to nourishing dairy foods for individuals and families throughout California through partnerships to pilot programs to deliver product and refrigeration resources to the state’s food banks and feeding programs.

    California is the number one dairy state. Its 1,100 family dairy farms are focused on delivering the wholesome goodness of California milk while creating a greener, more sustainable future for dairy in the state.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world. Connect with the CMAB at RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube,Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

    About Raley’s Food For Families

    Raley’s Food For Families is a registered 501(c)3 organization providing food to Feeding America food banks and their network of partner agencies. The year-round program serves the communities of Northern California and Western Nevada through Raley’s, Bel Air Market, Nob Hill Foods and Raley’s ONE Market locations. Raley’s Food For Families began as a holiday food drive in 1986 and was founded by Co-Chairman and Owner Joyce Raley Teel and CEO emeritus Charles Collings. In the past 33 years, the organization has raised over $59 million and 44 million pounds of fresh wholesome food. With a long commitment to local communities, Raley’s Food For Families continues to grow and thrive as an organization dedicated to health and happiness for those experiencing food insecurity. Raley’s covers one hundred percent of the administrative costs for the non-profit, meaning all donations go directly to the food bank partners.

  • Student Ambassador, Samantha Gambonini to Share California Dairy Messages with International Audience

    Samantha Gambonini of Petaluma has been selected to represent the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) in South Korea during the 2024 CMAB International Internship Program.

    Gambonini was chosen based on academic achievement, her connection to the California dairy industry, and her willingness to travel abroad to learn more about international dairy sales and marketing. The goal of the International Internship Program is to provide young agriculture and dairy college students an opportunity to learn about dairy foods and marketing in the international marketplace, with a focus on developing leaders who will serve on dairy industry boards, work in dairy foods processing, or in sales or marketing.

    Over the six week period, Gambonini will spend time with in-country CMAB marketing organizations in South Korea to gain a better understanding of markets, consumer buying habits, and promotional efforts on behalf of California’s dairy industry.

    “California currently accounts for around 33 percent of all U.S. dairy exports so international trade is essential for our continued growth. Over the last decade and a half, the CMAB has worked closely with partners in South Korea to develop markets for California dairy products. This program is focused on providing insight into international dairy marketing for future leaders,” said Glenn Millar, Director of International Business Development for the CMAB.

    Gambonini is currently working towards her B.S. in Agricultural Education at Washington State University, where she serves as the Social Media and Events Coordinator for the Young Farmers and Ranchers Club, as well as an Officer for the Agricultural Education Club. Gambonini was an active member of FFA, where she showed dairy cattle and served as the North Coast Region FFA President and Vice President. She also served as District 2 Dairy Princess from 2021 to 2022. Upon completion of the internship program, she will continue to advocate for the dairy industry, and hopes to incorporate this passion into her career.

    California is the nation’s leading milk producer, and makes more butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk than any other state. California is the second-largest producer of cheese and yogurt. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which certifies they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, X and Pinterest.