Dairy Runs Deep this June Dairy Month

By Mariah Minnick

Dairy is a uniquely American industry rooted in generations of family tradition, community, culture and economic strength. Across all 50 states, dairy is more than a food group it’s a way of life. From family-run farms and businesses to the jobs and nutrition the industry provides, dairy runs deep in our history, our economy, and our communities. Throughout June Dairy Month, IDFA is celebrating the powerful role dairy plays in shaping American life through the “Dairy Runs Deep” campaign. Through stories, data, and voices from across the country, we are excited to spotlight the multigenerational families, local jobs, strong economies, and nutritious products that make dairy an essential part of who we are as a country.

American Families

Dairy is a legacy business. Dairy businesses from farmers and artisan cheesemakers to major regional brands are family-owned and operated—many for multiple generations. More than 94% of dairy farms in the U.S. are family-owned. For this week of June Dairy Month, we are excited to tell stories of dairy families who pass down values, knowledge, and a commitment to nourishing communities.

American Jobs

From the farm families working 24,000 dairy farms across the country to the men and women who transport milk and dairy products, run processing and facilities, and deliver American dairy products to consumers in the U.S. and around the world, the dairy industry supports more than 3 million U.S. jobs and $198 billion in wages. These are good-paying, local jobs that fuel opportunity in every corner of the country.

Want to learn more about how the dairy industry impacts jobs in your state? Visit IDFA’s Dairy Delivers tool to find out in seconds!