Evolving Trends of Dairy Sales

More variety, less traditional milk. That is the take-home following recent analysis from CoBank. They say that while U.S. consumers drink less milk every year, overall dairy sales are on a positive streak. Cheese, butter, and yogurt are fueling category growth, along with new dairy-based products designed to capitalize on convenience, health, and snacking trends.

A new CoBank report says the outlook for dairy retail sales remains strong with additional room for growth even as consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors evolve.

“The healthy snacking category is a growing megatrend that dairy products can capitalize on with a host of conveniently packaged solutions from low-fat cheeses to specialty yogurts to functional dairy drinks,” says Corey Geiger, lead dairy economist with CoBank.

Ch-ch-cheese continues to anchor the dairy category – I get it - with annual sales climbing. Butter is also enjoying a comeback in the U.S. as per capita consumption has climbed 43 percent in 25 years. And yogurt has moved from being a morning meal to becoming an anytime snack or healthy dessert choice.