Did you Know Dairy………

 

 

 

I had the privilege of spending the last two days at a training presented by the Midwest Dairy Association. I was surrounded by extremely professional, passionate individuals who were dedicated to getting the message out about the benefits of dairy products. I met dietitians and farm families, all of which knew the importance of dairy consumption. I have always been a firm believer in the power of dairy, and it shows when I go to the grocery store every week. In my cart is always 8 gallons of skim milk, low-fat cottage cheese, cheese and low-fat sour cream. On occasion, there may be ice cream and whipped cream, or other types of dairy. My family benefits from the protein and nutrients in each serving. Osteoporosis runs in my family, and I have a personal vendetta to put that to a halt. My whole family loves milk! So, I thought I would share a few things I learned this week–hope you enjoy them!

• Dairy is economical and nutritional–an 8 ounce glass provides nine essential nutrients at about .25 cents per glass.
• Dairy is local.  For example, it takes about 48 hours for milk to get from the farm to your store.  In Omaha, our milk comes from no more than 100 miles away!  That is truly being able to by local and fresh!
• The U.S. dairy industry produces a gallon of milk with 90% less land, 65% less water, 75% less manure and 63% smaller carbon footprint compared to past decades.
• 98% of all dairy farms are family-owned!  Many for multiple generations.
• Dairy farmers take extremely good care of their animals.  It’s their lively hood, and they take their job seriously.
• Dairy farmers, like all farmers, wear many hats.  They have to be techy specialists, accountants, veterinarians, meteorologists, and environmentalists.
• Every glass of milk and other dairy products contribute jobs, income and vitality to hundreds of communities across the nation!

So, raise a glass of milk today and toast the incredible dairy farmers who brought you that wonderfully nutritious glass of milk!