05/29/06 3-A-Day Dairy for slimmer summer

Washington Ag May 29, 2006 Dairy producers, through their checkoff investment are stepping up to help people get slimmer this summer. Dozens of research studies have shown that consuming three servings of dairy a day, as part of a calorie-controlled diet, can help adults lose weight. Washington dairy producer Liz Anderson, says the dairy checkoff is putting that research into action this spring by reaching women with a 3-A-Day of Dairy program called 3 Steps Toward a Slimmer Summer. Anderson: "And it includes tips for cutting calories. Healthy eating suggestions, of course including milk, cheese and yogurt, getting your dairy in there." Anderson says that even though the "Slimmer Summer" program is aimed primarily at reaching moms, it delivers an important health message for all members of the family. Anderson: "When Mom drinks milk, kids drink milk. And if we want to build lifetime consumers, we have to hit Mom first because she's the one that buys it; she's the one that makes sure her kids get it." Meredith Griffin, Director of Retail Marketing for Dairy Management Inc, which oversees the National Dairy Checkoff Program, says results at the retail level and the consumer response, demonstrates the value of the 3-A-Day of Dairy message. Griffin: "It's a great way to talk to Mom, and it's a compelling message for Mom, and it really is starting to hit home that including 3 servings of dairy a day in her diet can help her on her weight loss plan. We're seeing some success stories, and I think it's really starting to resonate within the consumer group." I'm Bob Hoff.