California Ag Network

Tag: Real California Milk

  • Retail Campaign Encourages Consumers To Enjoy Summer With California Dairy Snacking

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) announced today the return of a retail campaign focused on summer snacking with Real California dairy products. Snacking has risen in popularity over recent years, which has shifted consumers to snack more than ever and continue to look for affordable options that offer flavor and health benefits. With the addition of California dairy in simple recipes, snacking becomes a delicious summer-long experience that families can feel good about.

    The Summer Snacking promotion elevates awareness of California dairy products through integrated digital media and in-store elements. This will consist of targeted digital ads and social media posts, email communication, shopper marketing with select retailers, in-store signage, and e-commerce promotions through Instacart. An advertising and public relations surround sound campaign will include influencer partnerships with posts on Instagram and TikTok platforms, as well as earned media outreach to spotlight trends in dairy snacks.

    Recipes featured in the Summer Snacking campaign range from craveable flavors to cool treats, all elevated with Real California dairy. These tasty snacks are perfect for outdoor activities with rising temperatures. There’s something for everyone, with California Ice Cream Sandwiches, Taquitos Ahogados, Frozen Yogurt Sticks, Chocolate Whipped Cottage Cheese Mousse, Blueberry Pomegranate Smoothies, and more.

    “In recent years trends have shifted to show a significant increase in snacking among consumers. California dairy products offer a diverse selection of snacking choices, appealing to those seeking nutritious, indulgent, or balanced options,” said Katelyn Harmon, Director of Business Development – US Retail, for the CMAB.

    The Summer Snacking campaign will run from mid-June to mid-July and includes the following California retailers: Smart & Final, Gelson’s, Mollie Stone’s Markets, Save Mart, Lucky,  FoodMaxx, Food 4 Less, Foods Co., and Ralphs for a total of 753 stores statewide.

    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. California dairy farm families are proud leaders in sustainable farming 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, Twitter, Instagram 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.

  • Dr. Ty Wagoner Welcomed As Senior Manager Of California Dairy Innovation Center

    The California Milk Advisory Board’s California Dairy Innovation Center (CDIC) has announced the addition of Dr. Ty Wagoner as Senior Manager, a new position at CDIC.

    Dr. Wagoner brings over 10 years of experience in dairy products research and innovation to the role. He got his start as a trained chef at the California School of Culinary Arts before obtaining his BS, MS, and PhD in Food Science from North Carolina State University. His career includes dairy ingredients research at NC State, two years working with Fonterra’s R&D Center (NZ) as a part of the Transforming the Dairy Value Chain Primary Growth Partnership, and a stint leading ingredient innovation in the precision fermentation industry. Dr. Wagoner’s extensive background includes the formulation of new beverages, snacks, cheese products and novel ingredients. He also led strategic initiatives and worked extensively cross-functionally with R&D and operations teams.

    “Ty’s proven record of driving innovation and his deep understanding of the dairy technology landscape make him an invaluable addition to the CDIC team,” said John Talbot, CEO of the California Milk Advisory Board. “This new position will play a pivotal part in our expanding innovation ecosystem.”

    As Senior Manager, Wagoner will help guide CDIC’s initiatives to support processors and entrepreneurs; develop projects focused on product, process and packaging innovation; and collaborate with CDIC’s partnering academic institutions.

    “I’m honored to join the CDIC and contribute to its mission of advancing the dairy industry through innovation,” said Wagoner. “I’m enthusiastic about the industry’s potential and look forward to collaborating with the team to grow opportunities identified for the dairy processing community in California.”

    Dr. Wagoner’s appointment underscores CDIC’s dedication to recruiting and developing top-tier talent to drive progress and innovation within the dairy industry, providing technical support to processors and entrepreneurs, and strengthening academic institutions in the state. Information about the California Dairy Innovation Center and its initiatives is available at cdic.net.

    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 who lead the nation in sustainable farming 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, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

    About California Dairy Innovation Center

    The California Dairy Innovation Center coordinates pre-competitive research and educational training in collaboration with industry, check-off programs, and research/academic institutions throughout the state of California in support of a common set of innovation and productivity goals. A virtual organization created by the California Milk Advisory Board, 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. The CDIC is primarily funded by California dairy producers through the California Milk Advisory Board.

  • Students Partner With California Dairy Families To Raise Milk Donations For Families in Need

    One in five Californians currently struggle with food insecurity, with milk being one of the most requested but least donated items at food banks. In Fall 2023, the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) 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 hold the inaugural Real California Milk Intercollegiate Give-A-Gallon Challenge in support of #GivingGallons milk drives in their local communities.

    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 is part of an ongoing commitment to increasing access to nutritious foods.

    “I’m so happy to be a partner in this initiative. Dairy farmers care about our communities. Donating gallons of milk to local food banks has been a great way to give back to those in need and support the California dairy industry. The amount of excitement centered around this project has been inspiring,” said Anthony Agueda, California dairy farmer and Fresno State Dairy Science student.

    MJC and Chico State also weighed in on the challenge. “We loved visiting food banks in our area to deliver milk, and to hear their stories. It was great to hear their why, and how food banks make such a difference in people’s lives who are less fortunate,” said Trinity Harter, MJC student and volunteer.

    Chico State student and volunteer Aspen Hoyer noted, “Chico State Organic Dairy and Chico State Dairy Science and Industry Club were very excited to be involved in the first Intercollegiate Giva-A-Gallon Challenge. It was a great experience that brought many of our students together to help make a difference in our community.”

    A total of 3,000 gallons were raised through this initiative. The donations will be distributed to the Salvation Army, the Boys and Girls Club, Second Harvest of the Greater Valley Foodbank, the Cal Poly Student Pantry and the Chico State Hungry Wildcat Pantry.

    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.

  • Real California Milk Debuts Great Mozzarella Showdown Foodservice Recipe Contest

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) announced the launch of the 2024 Great Mozzarella Showdown, an inaugural foodservice recipe contest challenging professional chefs and culinary students to develop creative, non-pizza dishes using California’s number one cheese product: Mozzarella.

    The CMAB is hosting this online recipe contest to build on the ongoing popularity of Mozzarella at foodservice and how it can be used in endless menu innovation. The goal is to showcase ideas using two styles of this versatile cheese in a variety of dishes for different dayparts, including appetizers and handheld items.

    The Great Mozzarella Showdown is open to professional chefs and culinary students in the U.S. and offers participants the opportunity to submit creative recipes in two categories: California Mozzarella and California Fresh Mozzarella.

    Influential foodservice judges will select eight winning recipes from the online submissions based on criteria including innovation, use of cheese as a primary ingredient, and flavor expectations. Professional chefs will conduct a cook off of the eight winning recipes and grand prize champions will be named for each category. Each chef finalist will receive $2,000, with the two winning dishes receiving an additional $2,000 for a total of $4,000 to each category champion. In total, the CMAB will award $20,000 in prize money.

    “This recipe contest is part of our continued efforts to partner with chefs and next generation culinary professionals to showcase the versatility and performance of California Mozzarella as a key foodservice ingredient,” said Mike Gallagher, Business and Market Development Consultant for the CMAB. “While we’ve done a lot to focus on the use of California Mozzarella in the pizza and entrée space, as the reigning cheese in our foodservice portfolio, the Great Mozzarella Showdown will serve to inspire awareness of the endless opportunities for use in appetizers, handhelds, flatbreads, salads and more.”

    The entry period for submitting recipes is January 8-February 16, 2024. The eight winning recipes/chefs will be announced on February 29, 2024, with the two grand champions named in mid-April. For more information, including entry details, visit greatmozzarellashowdown.realcaliforniamilk.com/.

    California is a reliable, consistent source of sustainable dairy products used by chefs and culinary professionals throughout the world. As the nation’s largest dairy state, California boasts an impressive lineup of award-winning cheesemakers and dairy processors that are helping to drive dining innovation.

    California is the leading producer of fluid milk, butter, and ice cream as well as Mozzarella and Monterey Jack. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which means they are made with sustainably sourced milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    About Real California Milk/the 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 dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs.

    The Foodservice Division of the CMAB supports foodservice operators and distributors that use Real California dairy products. The CMAB offers marketing and promotional support for foodservice operators that purchase dairy products with the Real California Milk seal, which means they are made with 100 percent milk from California’s more than 1,100 family dairy farms, using some of the most sustainable dairy practices in the nation.

    For more information on sourcing cheese from California, contact the foodservice team at 209.883.6455 (MILK), businessdevelopment@cmab.net or RealCaliforniaMilk.com/Foodservice, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

  • California Dairy Innovation Center Announces 2024 Conference & Schedule For Hands-On Dairy Products Education

    The California Dairy Innovation Center (CDIC) announced the latest short courses to be offered in 2024, as well as dates for the second Dairy Products, Processing, and Packaging Innovation Conference.

    The Dairy Products Processing and Packaging Innovation Conference returns to Shell Beach, Calif., February 27-29, 2024. The conference will feature presentations on packaging innovation by McKinsey & Company and dairy industry leadership panels. This year’s program will focus on sustainability advances at the dairy plant level and throughout the supply chain. The detailed program and speakers is available at: https://dairy.calpoly.edu/short-course-symposia Registration is now available at:  https://calpoly.irisregistration.com/Site/Dairy-Innovation-Conference-2024 CDIC is proud to collaborate with Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo to organize this event, with support from the Pacific Coast Coalition, Dairy Management Inc., and the California Dairy Research Foundation.

    The CDIC will offer eight workshops and hands-on training programs in 2024. The first short course, “Coffee, Tea, and Creamers: The Science and Art of Milk Ready-to-Drink Beverages” will focus on beverage formulation, and will be held January 16-17, 2024 at Chapman University in Orange, Calif. This new course will feature presentations by product development experts, as well as industry representatives from Nestlé, Chobani, Torani and more. The course will also include hands-on training, demonstrations, and ample networking opportunities. There are no pre-requisites required for this course, which is ideal for marketing personnel, as well as for entrepreneurs and established beverage processors. Registration is open at www.chapman.edu/coffeeteacreamers.

    A variety of advanced and expanded learning opportunities will be available throughout the year, including:

    • Hispanic and Mediterranean Cheeses, March 26-27, 2024 Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
    • Dairy 101 and Value-Added Milks, April 2024, final date and location to be confirmed
    • Advanced Unit Operations and Dairy Economics, May 14-15, 2024 Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
    • Fermented Milks, Yogurts & Probiotics, June 20-21, 2024, UC Davis, Davis
    • Advanced Cheesemaking, July 16-17, 2024, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
    • Innovation Workshop and State of the Industry, September 12, 2024, Fresno State

    For more information about the CDIC and its educational opportunities, contact Veronique Lagrange at vlagrange@cmab.net or visit www.cdic.net.

    California is the nation’s leading milk producer, and produces 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 indicates they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    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.

    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.

  • Real California Milk Brings Back Cheese Wreath Kit, Giving Back To Communities In Need

    In celebration of the holidays, today the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) released its second collaboration with cheese shop Lady & Larder – the California Cheese Wreath Kit, a collection of Real California cheeses, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, and other items used to create an edible arrangement for seasonal gatherings and gift giving. In the spirit of giving, for each kit ordered a donation of $20* will be made to provide fluid milk to Feeding America food banks in California in support of families in need.

    The California Cheese Wreath kit features three cow’s milk specialty cheeses made with Real California Milk from the state’s farm families, candied pecans, dried citrus wheels, raisins, honey, crackers, and herbs along with a round bamboo cheese board as well as instructions for assembling a festive cheese wreath. The wreath sells for $175 and is available for pickup at Lady & Larder in Santa Monica or online (https://www.ladyandlarder.com/collections/the-gift-shop/products/real-california-cheese-wreath-2023) for shipping throughout the U.S.

    “Cheese is an essential part of the holidays and the California cheese wreath brings all of the elements together for the ultimate holiday centerpiece. And the best part is the whole family can take part in assembling this beautiful arrangement that also supports families in need,” said Jennifer Giambroni, VP of Communications for the CMAB.

    The initiative is part of the CMAB’s ongoing #CADAIRY4GOOD initiative, which focuses on increasing access to nutritious dairy foods made with Real California Milk for California individuals and families in need and identifying sustainable partnerships to expand the reach and resources available to feeding programs throughout the state.

    California is the number one dairy state with 1,100 family dairy farms focused on delivering the wholesome goodness of California milk while creating a greener, more sustainable future. California products can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which means they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    * $20 will be donated to Feeding America for each California Cheese Wreath Kit purchased with a guaranteed donation of $10,000 to Feeding America. Only California Cheese Wreath Kit purchases at Lady & Larder between November 20, 2023 and January 30, 2024 qualify.

    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.

    Lady & Larder

    Twin sisters Sarah and Boo Simms are the culinary and creative duo behind Lady & Larder – the Los Angeles based cheese and wine shop credited with starting a global grazing board movement. Founded in 2016, Lady & Larder proudly supports 100% domestic, American-made seasonal products and specializes in custom edible displays, carefully sourcing only the best for their crudités, fruit, cheese, and charcuterie. For those unable to visit their shop in person, the duo also offers online classes and workshops, as well as ships beautifully curated cheese boards, charcuterie kits, and seasonal culinary gifts nationwide. To Learn more, please visit ladyandlarder.com.

  • Winners of the 5th Real California Milk Excelerator Innovation Competition Announced

    Startups Amazing Ice Cream, Arbo’s Cheese Dip, Petit Pot and WonderCow claimed victory at the 5th Annual Real California Milk Excelerator Final Pitch Event. Created by the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) and innovation advisory VentureFuel, the competition is designed to find, fund and accelerate innovation in dairy-based products, from consumer food and beverages to textiles and beyond. The four cohort winners will each receive $30,000 in resources and funding to scale their products in California and will compete for an additional $100,000 in support based on continued performance over a period of one year.

    In its fifth year, the 2023 Real California Milk Excelerator advances innovation in its truest state: open innovation. As one of the largest dairy competitions in the world, the program sought early-stage applicants with high-growth potential that create a 50% cow’s milk-based product or working prototype.

    Eight finalists participated in the November 16th live pitch event where they presented to judges from companies representing retail, consumer packaged goods, food distribution and media before a live audience of key stakeholders. During the event, 2022 cohort members dosa by DOSA and Wheyward Spirit each unlocked $100,000 and $25,000 in additional funding after demonstrating their ability to grow their businesses in California over the past 12 months. The event also featured a first ever “Future of Dairy Expo” where attendees tasted and tested products from 15 of the industry’s most innovative startups, and a panel highlighting insights on the impact of dairy innovations on retail sales and consumer behavior.

    “It is a great privilege and honor to be a part of the CMAB and VentureFuel Family,” said Donald Anit, Founder of Amazing Ice Cream. “Being able to see how California milk products are processed, from beginning to end, inspires us with an endless vision of avenues in the dairy industry. Meeting new processors, buyers and partners adds bountiful assets of growth to our business and the future of our company.”

    “As the only non-CA-based brand selected for the Excelerator, I was humbled by the opportunity, and immediately felt like Arbo’s Cheese Dip struck gold for being noticed and included. When I toured the Fiscalini Farmstead operation, it was the first time that I felt intimately what it takes for a dairy-based brand to be in business from beginning to end, and their work is no walk in the park,” said Andrew Arbos, Founder & CEO of Arbo’s Cheese Dip. “California dairy farmers are focused on a cleaner, more sustainable future, but they need brands like us to support them. This is why I became so passionate about adding the Real California Milk seal, because it carries the real weight of what it takes to be innovative and sustainable. Being chosen as one of the winners, it is now my duty to support California farmers, so that we can collectively deliver the highest quality products nationwide.”

    “We’re truly humbled to be selected as a cohort winner among such a remarkable assembly of innovative companies. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team over the years,” said Maxime Pouvreau, Founder of Petit Pot. “The timing of this prize couldn’t have been more perfect, as we will be utilizing the funding to support Petit Pot’s new paper cup desserts at Publix and Target. We’re looking forward to partnering with CMAB to drive awareness and affinity of our products and Real California Milk across the country.”

    “Being a part of the CMAB cohort has been a great experience for our WonderCow team,” said Rob Diepersloot, Founder of WonderCow. “We’ve met a lot of like-minded entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry leaders that we will continue to collaborate with as we grow our new company. It is these relationships and connections that will guide us as we take WonderCow to the next level. The California dairy industry has such an amazing story when it comes to innovation and sustainability, and we are extremely blessed to be a part of it.”

    “It was a close competition this year, with each cohort member bringing something interesting to the table. In the end, however, the four winners each had a solid product and a complete selling story that will connect with consumers,” said John Talbot, CEO of the CMAB. “California dairy families understand the value of innovation and invest in research and opportunities like the Excelerator competition to ensure a continued role for real milk and dairy in consumer’s evolving lives.”

    “This year’s winners – featuring pastry chefs to veterans – showcase the bright future and dynamic impact of combining dairy with innovation,” said Fred Schonenberg, CEO of VentureFuel. “Each of the founders is dedicated to driving excitement and demand for Real California Dairy through their innovative products and we look forward to supporting their ongoing growth as they seize the opportunities created from the program.”

    The Excelerator’s eight finalists were selected from a field of dozens of qualified entries and over the course of 12 weeks had access to a group stipend and a robust network of resources to refine and scale their product and business. They also participated in the CMAB/VentureFuel Mentorship Program, consisting of elite counsel from successful founders, investors, leading corporate executives, and experts across design, marketing, sales, manufacturing, distribution, farming, and processing industries. Past mentors have included venture capitalists, successful entrepreneurs, and executives from organizations like Unilever, UNFI and Mondelez. The total value of competition awards is half a million dollars.

    The 2023 Real California Milk Excelerator celebrates the state’s role as the number one producer of dairy in the United States. California, known for innovation, has a reputation for quality dairy products and leads the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. More than 1,100 family dairy farms produce the milk found in fluid milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, ice cream, and other dairy products identified by the Real California Milk seal.

    Over the past four years, the Real California Milk Excelerator has worked with more than 45 startups across numerous categories including food, beverage, direct-to-consumer platforms, textiles, and personal care. Representing nearly 40 percent of states across the U.S., program alumni have gone from idea to distribution with organizations such as UNFI and KeHE; and many can now be found on the shelves of retailers like Walmart, Safeway, Kroger, Amazon, and Whole Foods.

    Details about the 2023 cohort, mentors and the final pitch event are available on the RCM Excelerator site.


    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, 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, Twitter and Instagram. You can listen to The VentureFuel Visionaries podcast on Apple, Spotify Simplecastor wherever you get your podcasts.

  • Celebrating Mornings With California Cheese And Dairy

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) announced the return of its consumer promotion focused on holiday breakfast traditions made special with California dairy. The annual campaign – titled Holiday Mornings Mean More – debuted in 2020 and focuses on the California market.

    Holiday Mornings Mean More communicates messages of family, togetherness, and the importance of celebrating time together over the special breakfast recipes we spend a little extra time on during the season. The featured promotional menu provides a turn-key solution for busy shoppers, where any of the recipes can be scaled up or down to accommodate gathering sizes. The menu includes recipes designed to be enjoyed together such as a Greek Veggie and Feta Frittata, Ricotta Churro Waffles, California Breakfast Sopes and Chocolate Chip Sheet Pan Pancakes.

    The promotion, which runs November 8 through December 31, will be geotargeted around 1,162 California stores including Ralphs, Safeway, Raley’s, Mollie Stone’s, and Cardenas, among others. It will be supported with in-store media and shopper marketing activations. Integrated digital media will include banner ads and in-line recipe pairings throughout Chicory’s recipe network, Instacart SEM, targeted email blasts, influencer activations, sponsored social media posts, and targeted display banner ads.

    “Dairy is an essential part of breakfast. These holiday breakfast recipes were curated to showcase the best of California dairy while inspiring families to spend time together during the holidays creating new traditions in the kitchen,” said Katelyn Harmon, Director of Business Development, U.S. Retail for the CMAB. “High quality, sustainably produced California dairy products are perfect additions to make breakfast as a family that much more special.”

    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 products can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which certifies they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families using sustainable farming 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, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.