Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are among the most demanded but least supplied commodities within food bank systems. Shockingly, families reliant on these networks often receive merely a gallon of milk annually. As vital pillars of a thriving food ecosystem, food banks and their agencies bolster their capacity by increasing the availability of dairy. The dairy industry holds a distinctive place in facilitating this improvement within food bank networks.

Addressing Supply Shortcomings: Dairy products remain accessible and cost effective nutritional sources for numerous individuals in the United States, not to mention their freshness upon store arrival. Reportedly, fluid milk, sourced from almost 28,000 dairy farming families across the country, reaches local supermarkets within a mere 48 hour window. Yet, procuring dairy for food banks poses issues due to limited capabilities for refrigerated transportation and storage. Collaborating with Feeding America, the dairy industry has endeavored to mitigate these problems. Impressively, dairy distribution within Feeding America rose from 353 million pounds in 2019 to an astounding 506 million pounds in 2022.

Governmental initiatives like The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and alliances with dairy processors have fortified a consistent dairy supply for food banks to serve their clients. Furthermore, the U.S. dairy community demonstrates a robust commitment towards resolving food scarcity issues in America. Dairy industry employees coordinate annually with local food banks to deliver milk, dairy products, and their essential nutrients to individuals in need.

Addressing Nutrient Deficiencies: Dairy products are a powerhouse of critical nutrients such as calcium, protein, vitamins D, and B12. They also offer a cost effective source for three out of four vital nutrients – calcium, potassium & vitamin D and contribute over half of calcium and vitamin D consumed within American diets. These key nutrients are needed to maintain general health, more so for susceptible groups including children, pregnant women, and senior citizens. The integration of dairy into food aid programs can bridge nutritional deficiencies and promote the growth and well-being of individuals struggling with food insecurity.

Bridging Access Gaps: Dairy products are a remarkable addition to a varied and well balanced diet. Their array of flavors, textures, and versatility in culinary applications not only enhance meal enjoyment and diversity, but also cater to the cultural relevance for food pantry customers. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are central to many food cultures; hence, ensuring their availability aids in maintaining cultural diversity within food bank systems. Dairy foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt are cost effective for both community members and food bank systems – a typical 8-ounce serving of milk, for instance, retails for approximately 22 cents.

An Exclusive Solution for Food Banks & Pantries: In essence, dairy products carve out a unique position within successful food systems, food bank networks, and food-insecure communities. With their capacity to bridge supply, nutrient, and access gaps, dairy stands out as a versatile food group, playing a crucial role in safeguarding the health and welfare of our communities’ vulnerable constituents.

Dairy also paves the way for a sustainable and eco-friendly option for food bank patrons. Dairy foods provide nearly 20% of protein and over 50% of calcium and vitamin D in typical American diets, while only accounting for approximately 2% of the U.S.’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Explore the outcome of the Dairy Nourishes America Midwest Symposium, which could support you in enhancing access to dairy products for your clients.