California Ag Network

Tag: dairy processors

  • Dairy Industry Delivers on School Nutrition Commitment

    As students across the country return to the classroom, the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that America’s dairy processors have fulfilled the Healthy Dairy in Schools Commitment, eliminating the use of certified artificial colors in milk, cheese and yogurt products sold to K–12 schools for the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.

    According to the IDFA, the achievement marks the second consecutive year the U.S. dairy industry has delivered on a major voluntary commitment to improve school meals. Last year, processors met the Healthy School Milk Commitment, limiting added sugars in flavored milk to no more than 10 grams per 8-ounce serving—part of a broader trend that has cut added sugars in flavored school milk by 57% since 2006. This year, they removed certified artificial colors from school dairy products ahead of the 2026–2027 school year. The dairy industry has also lowered added sugars in flavored yogurts to meet new school program standards, while preserving the taste and appeal that students choose to consume. Research shows removing flavored milk from school meals alone leads to a 37% decline in overall milk consumption.

    “America’s dairy processors made two ambitious promises to parents, students and school nutrition professionals, and they delivered on both,” said IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes. “For the second year in a row, America’s dairy processors have taken meaningful action to improve the foods served in schools. Our industry isn’t waiting to be told how to improve—we’re investing, innovating and leading, while staying focused on what matters most: giving children wholesome, nutrient-rich dairy foods they enjoy and will actually eat and drink.”

    The Healthy Dairy in Schools Commitment, announced by IDFA in 2025, eliminated the use of Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 from milk, cheese and yogurt products sold for reimbursable school meals. The commitment went beyond existing federal requirements and most state standards, providing a nationwide approach for schools, families and dairy processors. Participating companies pledged to discontinue affected products or reformulate them using alternative ingredients.

    “America’s dairy processors promised to cut added sugar and remove artificial dyes from school dairy products — and they delivered,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “American children deserve wholesome, nutritious food made without unnecessary additives. This is the kind of leadership we need from the food industry, and we will keep working with farmers, food producers, and schools to make America healthy again.”

    — Story contributed by the International Dairy Foods Association

  • ‘The Future Starts Here’ at Dairy Forum 2027

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced that registration for Dairy Forum 2027 is now open.

    From Jan. 24–27, more than 1,200 leaders from across the dairy supply chain will gather in Orlando, for the industry’s premier annual event. Hosted at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, Dairy Forum 2027 will bring together executives from dairy processors, cooperatives, retailers and suppliers to explore what is next for the industry and chart a path forward in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

    The 2027 event theme, “The Future Starts Here,” spotlights the ideas, innovations and inflection points set to define what’s on the horizon for the dairy industry. From breakthrough technologies and evolving consumer expectations to shifting policy landscapes, Dairy Forum 2027 will explore how the industry can anticipate change and lead it. Attendees will walk away with a clearer understanding of what is ahead and how to position their businesses to thrive in a more dynamic, competitive environment.

    “Dairy Forum 2027 is where forward-thinking leaders come to get ahead of what is next,” said IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes. “It is an opportunity to challenge assumptions, explore new possibilities and gain the perspective needed to make confident decisions in a rapidly changing world. The insights and connections built here will help shape the future of dairy for years to come.”

    Dairy Forum will feature main sessions, deep-dive discussions, panel conversations, and special presentations from industry leaders and conference partners. Attendees will hear from experts in business leadership, technology, nutrition, sustainability, and food policy, with a focus on what lies ahead for the dairy sector.

    Set across more than 500 acres of natural landscapes, lakes, and working farmland, the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a distinctive setting for both business and connection. The property features world-class amenities, including championship golf, a full-service spa, farm-to-table dining, and a range of recreational experiences for attendees and their families.

    Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking to showcase their leadership and engage with the industry’s top decision-makers.

    To register for Dairy Forum 2027 and explore sponsorship opportunities, visit www.dairyforum.com. — Story contributed by the International Dairy Foods Association

  • Real California Milk’s Street of Dairy Showcases Latest Trends

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) will spotlight a variety of on-trend dairy products at the 2026 International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) show in Orlando, Fla. June 7-9. As a key exhibitor at the event, which brings together 10,000 attendees and more than 800 exhibiting companies at the largest industry-only trade show for dairy, deli, bakery, and foodservice professionals, CMAB will connect with industry professionals while sharing all that California dairy has to offer through on-trend culinary dishes and more.

    An assortment of dairy applications will be sampled throughout the show in CMAB’s booth #2035, including specialty cheese, cultured dairy beverages, kefir, desserts and premium dairy ingredients. California culinary expert Joe Baird will showcase a selection of trending recipes including Kimchi Grilled Cheese with Black Sesame Orange Compound Butter, French Onion Soup Dip On Toasted Brioche, Lavender Blackberry Chai Latte, Quesadilla Al Pastor With Pineapple Lime Crema, Panna Cotta Chocolate Dipped Drumsticks with Roasted Hazelnut Crunch and Banana Fosters Milkshakes will be featured in the Real California Kitchen.

    California dairy processors in attendance include Albertson’s (Lucerne), Amazing Ice Cream, Angelo & Franco, Bellwether Farms, Belfiore Cheese, Cheese Bits/Yummy Industries, Crystal Creamery, Fiscalini Cheese Co., Karoun Dairies, Lifeway Foods, Marin French Cheese Co., Marquez Brothers, Mid Valley Family Foods, Pacific Cheese, Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company, Scott Brothers Dairy, Sierra Nevada Cheese Co. and Sweet Craft Dolceria. — Story Contributed by the California Milk Advisory Board

  • International Dairy Foods Association to Gather in California for 2026 Dairy Forum

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is excited to announce that registration for Dairy Forum 2026 opens today.

    From January 25–28, 2026, more than 1,200 leaders from across the dairy supply chain will unite in Palm Desert, California, for the industry’s premier annual event. Held at the luxurious JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Dairy Forum 2026 will bring together executives from dairy processors, cooperatives, retailers, and suppliers to strengthen collaboration, spark innovation, and shape a bold, dynamic future for the industry. This year’s theme—UNITED FOR DAIRY—highlights the industry’s shared commitment to progress through innovation, leadership, and cross-sector partnerships.

    “Dairy Forum 2026 is where the future of dairy takes shape,” said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of IDFA. “This is the place for leaders to come together, build meaningful connections, and explore new strategies to grow, adapt, and lead. When we are united, the dairy industry is more resilient, more innovative, and more prepared to meet the moment.”

    Dairy Forum includes main sessions, deep dive sessions, panel discussions, special presentations by conference partners, and numerous opportunities to connect with leaders in the dairy industry. The 2026 event features keynote presentations from:

    • Rahm Emanuel, former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Mayor of Chicago, White House Chief of Staff, and U.S. Congressman
    • Sarah Frey, farmer, best-selling author, speaker, and entrepreneur
    • Jason Dorsey, researcher, speaker, and best-selling author
    • Brad Nordholm, president and chief executive officer, Farmer Mac

    Set against the stunning backdrop of the California desert, the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa offers panoramic views, two championship golf courses, world-class tennis and pickleball courts, sparkling pools, and a luxurious day spa. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at signature restaurants offering fresh, local cuisine. With over 234,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor event space, it’s an ideal destination for gatherings in the heart of the desert.

    Sponsorship opportunities are available to organizations looking to elevate their brand among the industry’s most influential decision-makers.

    To register for Dairy Forum 2026 and explore sponsorship opportunities, visit www.dairyforum.com.

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), Washington, D.C., represents the nation’s dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, which supports more than 3 million jobs that generate $198 billion in wages and $779 billion in overall economic impact. IDFA’s diverse membership ranges from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, from dairy companies and cooperatives to food retailers and suppliers, all on the cutting edge of innovation and sustainable business practices. Together, they represent most of the milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and cultured products, and dairy ingredients produced and marketed in the United States and sold throughout the world. Delicious, safe and nutritious, dairy foods offer unparalleled health and consumer benefits to people of all ages.