Getting Your Dairy Foods Ready for Back to School

 

Photo source: School Nutrition Association

It’s that time of year. While my sons have already graduated university, I still get a thrill from back-to-school sales. How low can a notebook go? A box of crayons for 25 cents, I’m in! Because I still write with wooden pencils and have an electronic sharpener on my desk, this is the time of year I stock up. 

This year is going to be different on the school food scene. Besides the fact that whole milk is back in schools and artificial dyes are out, parents will likely be scrutinizing food labels more than ever before. Many parents are looking for simple, trustworthy ways to support their growing children amid busy schedules and competing nutrition messages on social media, according to Danone USA.

School foodservice operators are equally overwhelmed. School meal and snack programs ensure students from kindergarten through the 12th grade are served nourishing foods that support lifelong healthy eating patterns. In the U.S., these programs rely on food and beverage manufacturers to help them meet the nutritional requirements set forth by USDA. Operators also need these foods to be affordable, simple to serve and delicious to eat. 

Since July 2025, U.S. schools have had to meet limits on added sugars in cereal, milk and yogurt. Starting July 2027, they will have to ensure that less than 10% of calories in meals comes from added sugar. New sodium reductions will also take effect in July 2027.  

Did you know that back in March a coalition of more than a dozen pro-meat, Make America Healthy Again—a.k.a. MAHA—aligned mothers, livestock producers and nutrition and agriculture organizations sent a letter to Secretary Brooke Rollins and USDA Food and Nutrition Service leadership? They requested that the administration focus first on improving the quality and sourcing of meat and dairy served in schools, before considering any increase in protein requirements as outlined in the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs).  

“Children deserve meat and dairy raised without routine drugs and excessive chemical inputs,” said John Klar, an author, agriculture expert and organic livestock producer that advises the MAHA movement. “By strengthening sourcing standards and supporting local and regional producers, USDA can improve children’s health while creating fair market opportunities for farmers doing it right.”

Photo source: School Nutrition Association 

 

How this will happen is still unknown. Further, there are many unknowns still out there as nutritional requirements evolve. 

“Every day, school meal programs are juggling financial, staffing and equipment challenges while trying to meet strict federal nutrition standards and the taste preferences of their students,” said Diane Pratt-Heavner, spokesperson for the School Nutrition Association. “With many programs struggling to keep their kitchens fully staffed, schools rely on their K to 12 industry partners to offer a variety of menu options that meet these federal standards.” 

Several states have also passed legislation restricting artificial dyes and additives in school foods. Schools are looking for products that don’t contain ingredients of concern. It’s paramount that dairy processors clean up the products they sell into schools. They also need to be Smart Snacks in Schools compliant. These are the nutrition standards for foods sold a la carte or in snack bars and vending machines.

Maola Local Dairies is on board. The Virginia-based dairy is introducing new limited-lime flavored milks for the 2026 to 2027 school year, giving school nutrition teams fresh, fun options designed to help students enjoy the nutritional benefits of dairy.

The new lineup will feature three rotating flavors throughout the school year: Cookies & Cream, Orange Cream and Vanilla Cream. Each flavor is designed to bring variety and excitement to the cafeteria while supporting school meal participation and helping reduce milk waste.

Each carton delivers 8 grams of protein, 13 essential nutrients and only 7 grams of added sugar. The products are also 100% dye free, made with natural flavors and produced with fresh, local milk from Maola’s family-owned farms. In addition to the new limited-time flavors, Maola also offers lactose-free milk options to help schools serve a broader range of student needs.

“School nutrition professionals are always looking for options that are both appealing to students and aligned with nutrition goals,” said Lindsay Reames, executive vice president -growth and brand at Maola Local Dairies. “These limited-time flavors give students something new to look forward to while delivering the high-quality dairy nutrition schools expect from Maola.”

Current federal school meal guidance allows schools to offer low-fat and fat-free flavored and unflavored milk to K to 12 students, while industry efforts continue to reduce added sugars in flavored school milk. 

An unknown that dairy processors must anticipate surfaced on July 14 when USDA posted an online pledge asking states to engage in “making school meals healthier.” You can view the pledge HERE.

Key highlights that are related to dairy are:

REPLACE BREAKFAST PASTRIES WITH WHOLE-FOOD BREAKFAST OPTIONS

• Replace pastries with whole-food options such as egg sandwiches, yogurt parfaits with
• fruit, whole-grain toast with nut butter, oatmeal, or overnight oats.
• Pair fruit with protein foods to improve satiety and stabilize energy.
• Adjust menu cycles to emphasize eggs, yogurt, and 100% whole grains.
• Source pre-prepared egg products like egg bites, hard boiled eggs, and scrambles, bulk
• yogurt, and frozen fruit that meet NSLP/SBP crediting requirements.
• Implement the added sugars cap now, rather than 2027. Serve yogurt and cereals with no
• or low added sugars.

PREPARE MEAT AND MEAT ALTERNATES USING HEALTHY COOKING METHODS

• When cooking with or adding fats to meals, prioritize oils with essential fatty acids, such as
• olive oil. Other options can include butter or beef tallow.

IMPROVE SMART SNACKS SERVED IN SCHOOLS

Photo source: School Nutrition Association

• Don’t offer beverages containing added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
• Remove foods with artificial flavors, petroleum-based dyes, and artificial preservatives.
• Only offer real foods like cheese sticks, hard boiled eggs, nuts, 100% whole grains, fruits,
• and vegetables.

SERVE WHOLE MILK

• The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and subsequent USDA rulemaking permit schools to serve whole and reduced-fat milk and excludes fluid milk from the weekly limit for saturated fat.
• Include whole milk as an option for all students to meet fluid milk requirements.

There are a lot of unknowns with this pledge and how it will be implemented. The time is now to make sure your dairy products will be compliant. 

Parmalat is expanding its retail presence in the U.S. with new Parmalat Multipack Milk at Target stores nationwide. The shelf-stable milks come in 8-ounce Plain Whole Milk and 8-ounce 2% Reduced-fat Chocolate Milk, providing families with an easy way to keep real milk on hand for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, sports activities, road trips and other everyday moments, according to the company. 

Nurri, a rapidly growing protein lifestyle brand, has launched Nurri Kids. The shelf-stable product is now available nationwide at Sam’s Club. It is intended for children four years and older. 

Nurri Kids delivers 10 grams of protein and just 2 grams of sugar (none are added sugars) per 8-ounce serving, setting a new standard for kids’ nutritional shakes, according to the company. It also contains nine essential vitamins and minerals. One serving also contains 140 calories, 8 grams of fat and 2 grams of fiber from chicory inulin. 

Made with ultra-filtered milk, the shake offers a smooth, creamy texture and classic chocolate or vanilla milkshake flavors kids love. The milkshake is sweetened with stevia leaf extract and is lactose free thanks to the addition of lactase. This is a big difference from the company’s adult-centric protein beverages that are sweetened with sucralose and acesulfame potassium. 

“We saw a clear gap in the kids’ nutrition category, a lack of beverage options that parents feel good about, and kids genuinely enjoy,” said Adam Tollefson, business unit director at Nurri. “‘Nutrition’ only works if kids actually drink it.” 

 

Danone USA recently reformulated its Danimals line of smoothies and low-fat yogurt pouches to now deliver a good source of three key nutrients many children aren’t getting enough of: calcium, vitamin D and fiber. Danimals smoothies now also contain 25% less total sugar than the prior smoothie recipe, and the new formula contains no flavors or colors from artificial sources and no high-fructose corn syrup. 

Organic Valley has new individually wrapped organic cheese snacks that deliver 5 grams of protein per serving. Crafted with milk from pasture-raised cows on organic family farms, the new Organic Valley Snack Sticks come in Colby Jack and Medium Cheddar varieties. 

“We know consumers are looking for convenient ways to incorporate high-quality protein into their daily routines, and premium cheese continues to be a top choice,” said Laurie Drake, vice president of marketing at Organic Valley. “With our new Snack Sticks, we are bringing the trusted quality of Organic Valley’s pasture-raised dairy in a bite-sized, flavorful format that is easy to enjoy anywhere, whether it’s packed in the school lunch box or taken as an on-the-go option to the park.”

The snacks are sold in 4.5-ounce packages containing six individually wrapped 0.75-ounce sticks. The suggested retail price is $5.49. 

Learn more about healthy school meals from the School Nutrition Association by linking HERE.

 

 

Dairy Innovation: Time to Think Clearly

 

Dairy protein beverages—clear, creamy and even fizzy—are having a moment. The latter, specifically, is being fueled by the popularity of prebiotic sodas. 
Mintel data suggests that the next big whitespace in drinks is protein sodas. Today’s consumers want protein, but depending upon the daypart, many prefer a more refreshing format than shakes, smoothies and milk-based drinks, according to Mintel research.

“There’s a clear opening for protein carbonated soft drinks that lead on flavor, lightness and refreshment. Products that fit into everyday life, not just the gym bag.”

The research shows that many consumers have started “home-hacking the protein soda. They are combining protein products with sodas to create homemade floats and dirty sodas that deliver on both protein and flavor.”

“When consumers go out of their way to build their own version of a product, the signal is clear: the market hasn’t caught up with demand yet,” according to Mintel.

“Amid the frenzy of the wellness drink boom, there’s a reassuring quality to the emergence of clear protein. Yes, electrolytes, collagen and prebiotics are enjoying their moment, but consumers’ relationship with protein is special. It’s rooted. Making protein clear is a technical leap. And adding it into carbonated soft drinks--a sector with joy in its DNA--is an eagerly awaited fusion of wellness and reward,” said Alex Beckett, principal analyst at Mintel.

While dairy processors may not want to add carbonating equipment into their production facilities, there’s still great opportunity with protein waters. 

It’s time for dairy processors to once again think beyond the white stuff. Others are doing it. 

NutraBio Labs Inc., a leader in performance and wellness nutrition for three decades, is launching PROTEIN NOW!, a line of shelf-stable shots that provide 21 grams of protein in a travel-friendly 3.38-fluid-ounce serving. PROTEIN NOW! requires no mixing, refrigeration or preparation. It comes in three flavors: Blueberry Acai, Orange Mango and Strawberry Watermelon. 

The shots are clear liquids. They are formulated with beta-lactoglobulin from whey protein isolate and bovine collagen peptides. 

The launch arrives as demand for convenient, high-protein formats accelerates globally, driven by consumers seeking simpler ways to meet daily protein targets and by the rapid growth of GLP-1 medications, which have placed new emphasis on protein intake in smaller, easier-to-consume servings. One shot contains 90 calories, zero sugar, zero fat and less than 1 gram of carbohydrates. 

“We built PROTEIN NOW! around a simple belief that protein should keep up with life, not compete with it,” said Alex Berrio, director of marketing at NutraBio Labs. “Nobody needs convincing that protein matters. The real challenge is getting it in consistently on days that are always moving. PROTEIN NOW! removes every barrier standing between people and their protein. No prep, no cleanup, no unwanted ingredients and no planning around it. We see this as the future of protein’s role in everyday life. Just grab it and go.”

To explore more recent introductions in this space, link HERE.

To learn more about the global whey ingredients marketplace and the innovations taking place in ingredient technology, plan to attend “The Whey Ahead.” This is the 12th International Whey Conference. It’s taking place in Chicago, the beautiful city I have called home my entire life. Link HERE for more information. Hope to see you there.

And, if you want to learn more about formulating High-Protein Dairy Products, plan to attend a short course on the topic taking place the week prior at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, Calif. Yours truly is on the program. For more information, link HERE.

Here’s What You Can Expect at IFT FIRST this Week: Get ready to MAX out!

 

Note: This product is currently in Aldi. It exemplifies how SenseMaxxing is being played out. These are “frozen” ice cubes that are “crystal clear,” “ultra pure” and “slow melting.” This four-pack sells for $4.99.  

It’s finally here: IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo.

Welcome to my lovely home city of Chicago. I was born and raised on the northwest side and am now living closer to Wrigley Field. Go Cubs, Go! Bummer that they are away this weekend. The White Sox have a day game on Saturday and Sunday, if you find yourself looking for something to do before IFT kicks off Sunday night. Chicago in the summer is the best! Welcome and enjoy!  

This year’s IFT FIRST expo floor will be maxxed out. It’s the buzz word of the year and comes with many qualitative descriptors. 

By now you’ve heard of protein maxxing, the social media movement of consuming very high amounts of protein to boost muscle, metabolism and satiety. Then there’s fiber maxxing, which must be cautiously done, as too much fiber can wreak havoc on the gastrointestinal system. (Be careful with how many fiber-infused products you sample on the expo floor. Trust me. I know from years past.)

What I’m excited about are two other maxxings: sense and nutrient. 

ATTENDING IFT FIRST? VISIT LYCORED AT BOOTH S2225.

I first reported on the term SenseMaxxing after attending the Winter FancyFaire hosted by The Specialty Food Association (SFA) in January.  The SFA identified SenseMaxxing as the “it” trend of the year. (Clearly Aldi is on board with its pricey ice cubes.)

SenseMaxxing embraces experiential intensity, where every bite and sip cranks up the volume on sensory saturation. In the current cultural moment, when technology and AI are encroaching on our personal and professional lives, it’s a reminder of our unique human senses, senses that are precious, powerful and worth leaning into. SenseMaxxing says goodbye, boring beige and hello, full-on feeling. 

Amid the “numbness” of modern life, consumers are demanding friction, brightness and truth, not smooth neutrality. They want experiences that make them feel alive; those that are imperfect, loud and deeply human. If a product doesn’t punch through the noise in terms of taste, texture, aroma or make you feel something visceral, it simply won’t break through in 2026. SenseMaxxing is all about sensory saturation so intense that it verifies reality, where consumer appetites really hit their apex. It’s sourness that makes us squint, crunch engineered for maximum acoustic impact, bubbly drinks that wake us up, visuals that prompt a double-take and a multi-sensorial symphony designed to provoke a reaction and affirm the human ability to feel. Think mouth-puckering, freeze-dried citrus fruit inclusions in a side compartment for yogurt or swicy shell coatings on an ice cream bar. 

It’s all about taking color and texture to the next level, naturally. It can be done and I cannot wait to see the prototypes on the expo floor. 

Then there’s nutrient maxxing, which has to do with fortification and enrichment. Dairy’s inherent nutrition, coupled with ingredient technology to boost protein, add fiber and layer in other nutrients and functional ingredients makes it a desirable food group to today’s consumers who want more out of every dollar they spend on food and every calorie they consume.

Expect to see many prototypes with functional ingredients that support active aging, a movement that has people taking control of their health and refusing to be defined by age. It’s a proactive measure to maintain muscle mass and bone strength, build immunity, reduce inflammation, support cognitive function, among other wellness attributes. 

Power Life High Impact Protein powder is a perfect example of nutrient maxxing. The mix is designed to help support muscle strength, recovery, lean muscle preservation and overall vitality. Available in both plant-based and whey-based formulas, the mix combines protein with clinically studied ingredients, including hydroxymethylbutyrate, a compound derived from leucine that helps increase muscle mass. It also includes digestive enzymes for better absorption, and essential nutrients like vitamin D3 and chromium to support metabolism and overall health. 

Many of these ingredients support gut health, which is paramount to active aging. Scientists have learned that there’s a correlation between the microbiome that live in the human gut and overall wellbeing, as a healthy gut supports proper nutrient absorption. It also promotes the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which influence energy and mood, and it boosts the body’s natural defenses to better handle stress, irregular sleep and busy days. The correlation between gut health and overall wellbeing is known as the gut-brain axis.

“One of the most important conversations you participate in on a daily basis is the one you never hear out loud. It’s one that exists between your gut and brain every second of the day, 365 days a year,” says Julie Smolyansky, president and chief executive officer of Lifeway Foods. “While these two systems used to be thought of as separate entities with their own set of functions, we now know they depend on each other and communicate regularly to operate optimally and help us feel our best.”

The company recently introduced Muscle Mates, a ready-to-drink functional beverage that pairs 20 grams of protein with 5 grams of creatine and Lifeway’s 12 live and active probiotic cultures.

“Muscle Mates is an exciting step forward in functional nutrition,” says Smolyansky. “Our goal is to bring together the best of performance and wellness by offering support for strength, recovery, focus and gut health in one convenient and great-tasting format. We see opportunities to serve a wide range of consumers, from athletes and fitness enthusiasts to those simply looking to support their overall well-being. I am particularly eager to highlight creatine’s emerging relevance for women, as more are exploring its potential role in energy, performance and healthy aging.”

Looking forward to seeing many of you at IFT FIRST. Safe travels. 

ATTENDING IFT FIRST? VISIT LYCORED AT BOOTH S2225.

Dairy Innovation 2026: A Practical Approach to Formulating for GLP-1 Users and Beyond

 

Magic weight loss drugs have come a long way since the now-banned, over-the-counter diuretic pills from the ‘80s and ‘90s. While studies showed they suppressed appetite and sped up metabolism, the side effects, including stroke and heart attack, which were not discovered until mainstream use and a number of years in the market, outweighed the benefits. Not trying to scare anyone currently on today’s anti-obesity medications (AOMs), but there are a lot of unknowns. 

We do know that these AOMs trick the body into feeling full by functioning similar to the satiety hormone known as glucagon-like peptide-1, or simply GLP-1. This hormone is naturally made by the small intestine and stimulates insulin production, which in turn lowers blood sugar levels. It also slows down stomach emptying and reduces the levels of hunger hormones. What we do not know are the long-term effects on physiology, metabolism and overall health and wellness. 

We also know that many of the people on AOMs are at high risk of being malnourished. This is why they are seeking out nutrient-dense foods. Malnutrition is defined by both muscle wasting and nutrient deficiencies. 

J.P. Morgan estimates 10 million people today, like right at this moment, have prescriptions for AOMs. The company projects that figure will jump to 25 million people by 2030. 

GLP-1 treatments are projected to lead to an annual revenue reduction of $30 billion by 2030 and $55 billion by 2034 for the food and beverage industry, with GLP-1 shoppers spending 31% less on groceries, according to J.P. Morgan research. That’s a frightening figure for retailers and junk food brands. 

 

According to Morning Consult’s survey of 58,000 adults, GLP-1 users are wealthier, better educated, more digitally engaged and more optimistic about the economy than the average American. They tend to be married, an urban Gen X—we are finally getting recognized—or Millennial, with about a third earning more than $100,000 annually. They are willing to pay premiums for quality, convenience and sustainability. 

“GLP-- 1 users are driven and community oriented, disciplined about food and enthusiastic about indulgent brands. They are not a health niche—they are an affluent, hyper-engaged, aspirational consumer segment that happens to manage weight with modern pharmaceuticals. And as GLP prescriptions continue their rapid growth, this segment will only become more commercially important,” according to Morning Consult. 

You can access the report HERE. I highly encourage you to download the report. It has many interesting and useful findings.

Dairies need to adapt or risk being left behind in this fast-changing marketplace. While there are many unknowns, what is known may assist in product development. 

The Morning Consult research shows that 74% of GLP-1 users say that health is their primary food decision factor. Low/no calorie and low/no sugar foods and beverages that allow them to experience consumption are desired. 

Nutrient maxxing is also important. That’s where dairy comes into the picture. Dairy’s inherent nutrition, coupled with ingredient technology to boost protein, add fiber and layer in other nutrients and functional ingredients makes it a desirable food group to GLP-1 users and former users. But here’s my practical advice: market the nutrient density to all consumers. 

“There are a lot of end manufacturers out there whose brands are already going in the right direction,” said Denisse Colindres, senior manager nutrition communication-North America, BENEO, Parsippany, N.J. “Often it is not about completely new product developments but rather adapting existing products to the special needs of GLP-1 users, for example, smaller portion sizes.”

Today’s consumers want foods and beverages that work with their biology, not against it. That’s what dairy does and does it the best!

Dairy Management Inc.’s (DMI) New Product Competition
A team of food science students from Utah State University won first place in DMI’s New Product Competition with a high-protein personal pizza featuring a crust made with approximately 85% dairy ingredients. The award was announced during this week’s American Dairy Science Association’s annual meeting in Milwaukee.

The product was selected for best meeting this year’s contest challenge: developing an innovative dairy-based product that supports bone health, muscle health and weight management. These are the attributes that dairy foods marketers must be communicating to ALL CONSUMERS in order to maintain sales momentum. 

The team’s winning product, Athena’s Slice, reimagines personal pizza with a crust made from cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan and nonfat dry milk. Topped with tzatziki-style sauce, gyro meat, feta cheese, mozzarella, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, onions and green bell peppers, the pizza delivers 30 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per serving.

The students said Athena’s Slice was designed to meet growing consumer demand for protein-rich foods while demonstrating dairy’s versatility in unique applications. Team members Taelie Kennedy, Angalee Brinkerhoff and Erynn Chidester received DMI’s Platinum Dairy Innovator Award and a $10,000 prize.

“Someone suggested a cottage cheese pizza crust and I wanted to do something Greek-themed,” Kennedy said. “We also looked at consumer insights and protein has been one of the biggest trends for years so that was important to us. Those concepts came together and that’s really how Athena’s Slice was born.”

 

Chidester added: “People are surprised when they see how much protein is in the crust. It helped show them a different side of dairy and expanded their understanding of what dairy ingredients can do.”

 

Brinkerhoff said the competition provided valuable real-world product development experience that will help them prepare for careers in the food industry.

Other winners included:
Gold Dairy Innovator Award ($7,000): Cornell University--Melt a Whey, a bite-sized dairy snack that melts in the mouth and can be prepared as a latte-style beverage. The product contains approximately 55% dairy ingredients and delivers 18 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of collagen per serving.

Silver Dairy Innovator Award ($4,000): Oregon State University--Protein Pomodoro, a refrigerated pasta sauce formulated with 61% dairy ingredients that combines cottage cheese with a classic tomato base to deliver protein and calcium in a familiar meal solution.

Dairy Innovator Awards ($2,000 each): Rounding out the top six finalists are Cornell University (cottage cheese reimagined as a light, airy mousse), University of Wisconsin-Madison (high-protein, frozen mousse-style dessert) and University of Wisconsin-River Falls (freeze-dried snack featuring a cottage cheese base combined with fruits, vegetables and/or chocolate).

Marilyn Hershey, chair of DMI and a Pennsylvania dairy farmer, said the competition reflects the value of investing in future food scientists and opportunities for dairy growth.

 

California Milk Advisory Board Opens Applications for 2026 Real California Milk Excelerator 
The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) and innovation consultancy, VentureFuel, have launched the 2026 Real California Milk Excelerator, one of the world’s largest dairy innovation and startup acceleration programs. Now entering its eighth year, the program is evolving beyond traditional startup support to help founders accelerate commercialization, retail growth and business scale through a combination of industry expertise, strategic connections and AI-enabled sales and marketing tools.

Over the past eight years, the program has become a proven engine for dairy innovation and growth. More than 60 brands have participated, benefiting from over $2.5 million in non-dilutive funding, 6.3 billion media impressions and connections to more than 100 industry executives spanning distribution, retail, manufacturing, venture capital and corporate innovation. These resources have helped participating companies increase visibility, secure strategic relationships and accelerate their path to commercialization.

Featuring both incubator and accelerator tracks, the Real California Milk Excelerator dairy innovation program supports emerging and growth-stage companies developing innovative, value-added dairy products. Cohort members receive support to move from product innovation to commercial success across categories including beverages, snacks, cultured dairy products, cheese, butter, nutrition-focused foods, functional foods, frozen desserts, personal care and pet products made with dairy ingredients.

Since inception, the program has helped drive multi-million-dollar growth and retail expansion at national retailers including Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market and Costco. The program’s incubator track has expanded its reach by helping promising early-stage concepts gain the expertise, industry connections and resources needed to advance toward commercialization. 

Building on that impact, and the success of alumni like Smearcase, Petit Pot and Cheese Bits, the 2026 program places increased emphasis on commercialization, retail readiness, investor access and AI-enabled growth strategies designed to help founders accelerate market adoption and scale more efficiently.

Selected companies will participate in a 10-week program combining mentorship, expert-led education and hands-on support from leaders across the dairy, food and retail ecosystems, with guidance spanning formulation, production, sales, marketing, retail strategy and commercialization. As a key enhancement for 2026, participants will gain access to AI-enabled sales, marketing, consumer insights and retail intelligence tools that can help identify market opportunities, analyze consumer trends, optimize go-to-market strategies and improve commercialization decisions.

Applications are open through July 24, 2026. Startups and entrepreneurs developing innovative dairy products made with at least 50% dairy are encouraged to apply.

Interested parties can apply, learn more about competition rules, key dates and the application process, and RSVP for an upcoming virtual information session by linking HERE.

The Powerful Pint is More than Ice Cream. It’s an Experience.

 

“Texture is the new flavor,” according to Anne-Marie Roerink, president, 210 Analytics.

While familiar sensations still resonate, novel, exciting and luxurious experiences are what is capturing consumers’ attention, according to Innova Market Insights. 

With consumers eating less—in particular those on GLP-1 medications—there’s a shift toward experiences that engage every sense. Consumers are exploring the world through their tastebuds, often times seeking out experiences that include elements of wellness, nostalgia or indulgence. 

Enter the powerful pint of ice cream. It contains just enough creamy and dreamy to satisfy the senses. For many, indulging in ice cream is a cherished ritual that brings joy, comfort and connection. It’s therapeutic. 

That’s the basis behind “Therapy in a Pint.”

“We all have those moments where we reach for something small to feel a little better, like a scoop of ice cream after a hard day,” said Josh Bruno, CEO and founder of Rula, a national behavioral healthcare provider delivering accessible, insurance-covered care. “But what we’re often really craving is support.”

In honor of May Mental Health Awareness Month, Rula partnered with ice cream brand Van Leeuwen to launch Therapy in a Pint, the first-ever “empty” pint of ice cream. While good ice cream can feel like therapy, this pint adds an opportunity for deeper self-care. Each pint delivers a different kind of treat: a QR code that unlocks access to a therapy session through Rula.

Therapy in a Pint was available at select Van Leeuwen scoop shops nationwide for $7.95, which in addition to the QR code, came with a scoop of any Van Leeuwen ice cream flavor. The program was all about providing a positive experience by reimagining ice cream as an opportunity to invest in one’s mental wellbeing. By partnering with Van Leeuwen, a brand synonymous with happiness, Rula celebrated life’s small joys while encouraging people to prioritize their mental health in meaningful ways.

“At Van Leeuwen, one of our core values is a good state of mind,” said Ben Van Leeuwen, co-founder and CEO of Van Leeuwen. 

Graeter’s Ice Cream, America’s oldest family-owned and operated craft ice cream maker, has always been about experience. From its signature French Pot process, where the ice cream is handcrafted in small batches--just 2.5 gallons at a time—to its limited-edition bonus flavors dropped multiple times a year, Graeter’s aims to make consumers happy. 

The company recently released its limited-edition summer line-up which was “crafted to capture the whimsy of this season in every scoop.” This year’s collection of bonus flavors features five new creations, all serving as a celebration for everything from travel and nostalgia to carefree days and festive nights. The flavors are being released throughout the summer in Graeter's scoop shops as well as online for nationwide shipping, while supplies last.

• Marrakesh Coffee is bold coffee ice cream spiced with cardamom, cinnamon and ginger.
• Ghost Notes celebrates adventure park Kings Island’s new ride, Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare. The flavor is as mischievous and unexpected as the ride itself: marshmallow and grape ice cream combined with marshmallow cookie dough. 
• Peanut Butter & Clouds is rich peanut butter ice cream with fluffy marshmallow pieces folded throughout.
• Cherry Sparkler was crafted to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday. This wild cherry ice cream contains red and blue popping candy folded into every star-spangled scoop.
• Strawberry Sorbet, which will come out in late July, is made with real strawberries picked at peak ripeness from Pacific Northwest farms.

“Ice cream has always been a quintessential part of summer, bringing people together through joyful moments,” said Richard Graeter, fourth-generation president and CEO. “Our five new limited-edition flavors are meant to capture those moments big and small and make summer sweeter and last just a little bit longer.”

The Kroger Co. is bringing the iconic tastes of summer straight to the frozen aisle with Kroger Brand’s flavor-packed, limited-time All-American Ice Cream Collection. 

To celebrate, TODAY--Friday, June 19, starting at noon eastern time--is Kroger’s long-awaited free pint offer. Ahead of summer solstice on June 21, customers can grab a free pint to enjoy on the longest day of the year by using a downloadable, single-use digital coupon, while supplies last. 

“We’ve loved seeing customers come back year after year for their free pints and now, we’re going bigger than ever by giving away 100,000 pints,” said Ann Reed, Group Vice President of Our Brands at Kroger. 

If you are near a Kroger, go gets yours! Download the coupon HERE. 

The three new flavors for this year are:

• Seventh Inning Swirl: Caramel popcorn flavored ice cream with praline peanuts and caramel swirls.
• Sweet As Cherry Pie: Cherry pie flavored ice cream with tart cherry swirls and pie pieces.
• Banana Split Social: Strawberry banana ice cream with pineapple chunks and chocolate swirls. 

Blue Bell has a new berry-delicious flavor: Black Raspberry Fudge Ice Cream. It is a decadent combination of black raspberry-flavored ice cream with dark chocolate-flavored chunks and a chocolate fudge swirl. 

“This is the first raspberry flavor to join our lineup in a few years, so this will be a treat for many,” said Joe Robertson, executive director of advertising and marketing for Blue Bell. “Black Raspberry Fudge is a perfect combination of a sweet, yet tart black raspberry ice cream that blends perfectly with the chunks of chocolate and a rich fudge swirl. The flavor is decadent, indeed!”  

Also new and now available from Blue Bell is Brookie À La Mode, a rich, creamy brown sugar ice cream loaded with chunks of brownies and soft chocolate chip cookie pieces. 

For those looking to reach their protein goals, Blue Bell released a new high-protein dairy dessert in March. The PRO pints, with up to 12 grams of protein per serving, are available in Chocolate, Coffee, Salted Caramel, Strawberry and Vanilla. 

“As we head into summer and the hottest months of the year, ice cream becomes the go-to sweet treat for many,” Robertson said. “We’re proud to offer a delicious lineup with something for everyone to enjoy.” 

HP Hood continues to grow the Lactaid brand of ice cream. The brand’s most recent launch is limited-edition Cherry Fudge Chip ice cream. The new variant combines a cherry-flavored base with a dark cherry swirl and fudge chunks. It is made with real milk and cream. The addition of lactase breaks the lactose down into glucose and galactose. The brand positions the product as offering a traditional dairy ice cream experience for consumers who are lactose intolerant or prefer lactose-free options.

Ben & Jerry’s is growing its popular Sundaes pint line with three new varieties. 

• Straw-Bae Shortcake: Sweet cream ice cream with shortcake cookies and strawberry swirls, topped with strawberry-swirled topping and shortcake crumble.
• PB Blondie Bestie: Peanut butter ice cream with blonde brownies and graham cracker swirls, topped with caramel-swirled whipped topping and mini peanut butter cups.
• Mocha Mood Pie: Chocolate cold brew ice cream with chocolate cookies and chocolate cookie swirls, topped with fudge-swirled whipped topping and fudge chips.

These three join Dulce De-lish! Sundae, Choco-lotta Cheesecake Sundae, Turtle Sundae and the fan favorite Cookie Vermont-ster.

Protein Pints is raising the bar on indulgence with its newest launch, Fudge Brownie. Available exclusively nationwide at Sprouts Farmers Market stores, this new flavor features a smooth, decadent brownie batter fudge swirled with an explosion of chewy brownie pieces. Inspired by the classic pairing of brownie and ice cream, Fudge Brownie offers a rich, texture-driven experience offering layered inclusions in every bite. 

Each pint contains 30 grams of protein, 85% less sugar than traditional ice cream, zero artificial sweeteners, and is always gluten-free, reinforcing the brand’s mission to prove indulgence and function can go hand in hand. 

“At Protein Pints, we’ve always believed that choosing a healthier lifestyle shouldn’t mean retiring your sweet tooth,” said Paul Reiss, co-founder and CEO of Protein Pints. “With Fudge Brownie, we created an unapologetically decadent ice cream. Our pint delivers on taste while still providing the 30 grams of protein our community relies on. It’s a knockout flavor that proves you really can have it all.” 

Fudge Brownie is the third new flavor released by the brand this year, following the recent additions of Salted Caramel and Banana Graham Slam, extending the Protein Pints line-up to nine flavors. Each pint is made with natural ingredients and crafted for a creamy, craveable texture without the chalky aftertaste often associated with high-protein desserts.  

The Magnum Ice Cream Company has new pints, too. Its Breyers brand joined forces with its Good Humor, Popsicle and Almond Joy to launch three fun new pints, giving consumers new ways to enjoy their favorite sweet treats and make everyday snacking more exciting and experiential. This new lineup includes Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake, Creamsicle and Almond Joy. 

McConnell’s has crossed borders with its new Toasted Sesame & Raspberry ice cream. It’s silky-smooth, toasted sesame-infused ice cream featuring Soom Premium Tahini. This gets swirled with McConnell’s house-made raspberry jam. Creamy, nutty, with a touch of sweet. It’s peanut butter jelly time, but all grown up.

This line literally crosses borders. Following a high-profile U.S. launch in New York in summer 2025, Sammontana continues its nationwide expansion with gelato pints. All products are crafted in Italy and defined by the brand’s signature creaminess, bold flavors and joyful spirit. The U.S. assortment is designed to bring the ritual of Italian gelato into everyday American routines, without compromising on quality or authenticity. It’s all about experience. 

Dairy Foods Innovations: Dairy—in its many forms—is fueling the future.

 

(picture taken at IDDBA)

The Midwest, including where I am in Chicago, had been hit very hard the past two days with severe weather. For those returning from IDDBA, I hope you made it home safe. For those with power and WIFI outages—like me—hope you get back in business. Sorry for the delay in today’s blog. It’s Mother Nature’s fault. But I think we can forgive her, as she gave us dairy, a food that fuels the world!  

It was great to see so many Daily Dose of Dairy subscribers at IDDBA 2026, which was held earlier this week in Orlando. Exhibitor innovations confirmed what Anne-Marie Roerink, president, 210 Analytics, presented as a keynote speaker. Basically, she said, dairy is rocking it. (You saw some of the IDDBA innovations this past week featured as a Daily Dose of Dairy. More to come in the weeks ahead.)
“Dairy growth reflects the nation’s health focus. Real ingredients, protein, functional benefits, low carb and animal welfare, dairy offers it all,” said Roerink. 

 

Check out this cottage cheese case at my neighborhood Mariano’s. I chatted with the stock person who said she can’t keep it filled.  

New research from Chef’s Pencil, an international online food magazine and cookbook platform where professional chefs share their recipes, culinary techniques and industry insights, shows that cottage cheese is undergoing one of the most remarkable comebacks in the American food industry, fueled by the country’s growing obsession with protein-rich foods.

After ranking last among five popular cheeses just a few years ago, cottage cheese has now overtaken cheddar, mozzarella and parmesan in online popularity, according to the platform’s analysis of Google Trends data. The surge in consumer interest is also showing up in the supply chain: USDA data shows cottage cheese production grew roughly five times faster than overall U.S. cheese production between 2023 and 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing major cheese categories in the country.

Some key findings:

• Cottage cheese reached its highest search popularity on record in 2026.
• Searches for cottage cheese now exceed those for cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan.
• USDA data shows cottage cheese production grew by roughly 25% to 26% between 2023 and 2025, compared to about 5% growth for the cheese industry overall. It was the second-fastest-growing major cheese category in America, behind only gouda.
• Dairy producers are investing heavily in new cottage cheese production capacity, with some facilities shifting away from other cheese varieties to meet demand.
• Consumers are increasingly using cottage cheese in high-protein recipes, from lasagna and bread to ice cream, cheesecake, pancakes, and mac and cheese.

The trend appears to be part of a broader shift toward protein-focused eating, driven by fitness culture, health-conscious consumers and the growing popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss medications.

One of the beauties of cottage cheese is its versatility. It can be turned into an indulgent sweet treat, while still providing powerhouse protein. 

Roerink emphasized at IDDBA that many dairy foods provide permission for everyday indulgences. This is not something to downplay. This is a marketing point to promote. 

Speaking of permission to indulge, I am not going to let the cheesecake opportunity go, which is something I recently wrote about. Read more HERE. Single-serve cheesecake desserts in new formats were big business at IDDBA. Cheesecake can be formulated to deliver protein, while satisfying sweet cravings and global flavor adventure. 

“Protein is taking center stage in how consumers think about health and the shift has been building for years,” according to Julie Johnson, president, HealthFocus International, Des Plaines, Ill. “Our latest study, tracking behavior from 2018 to 2026, shows a clear evolution: adding protein has become an increasingly important dietary priority, with more consumers linking it directly to weight management.

This isn’t just a trend. It’s a reframing of how people approach nutrition.

“Protein is no longer just for fitness enthusiasts,” said Johnson. “It’s becoming a foundational tool for everyday health, satiety and sustainable weight control.
“For brands and teams, this signals growing opportunity in product innovation, messaging and portfolio strategy,” Johnson added. 

This is particularly true with whey proteins, which are in such great demand as food ingredients, that some outlets are reporting there to be a shortage. 

“Consumer demand trends sharply diverged between whey and plant protein. Whey protein continued strong growth, with dollar sales increasing 17.4% and unit sales increasing 27.4% versus the previous year,” said Scott Dicker, market insights and research, SPINS, Chicago. “Household penetration for whey protein also increased by 1.8 points, demonstrating continued consumer engagement and broad-based demand growth.

Plant protein, however, experienced declining demand despite stable pricing. Dollar sales declined 7.3% while unit sales fell 5.7% versus the previous year. Household penetration also declined by 0.5 points, indicating that fewer consumers are purchasing the segment.”

 

From byproduct of cheesemaking to powerhouse protein, whey is rocking it. Plan to join whey industry professionals at this year’s International Whey Conference, which will take place in Chicago, September 20 to 23. I promise to have a chat with Mother Nature about weather. To learn more, link HERE.

 

California Milk Advisory Board Opens Applications for 2026 Real California Milk Excelerator 

The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) and innovation consultancy, VentureFuel, have launched the 2026 Real California Milk Excelerator, one of the world’s largest dairy innovation and startup acceleration programs. Now entering its eighth year, the program is evolving beyond traditional startup support to help founders accelerate commercialization, retail growth and business scale through a combination of industry expertise, strategic connections and AI-enabled sales and marketing tools.

Over the past eight years, the program has become a proven engine for dairy innovation and growth. More than 60 brands have participated, benefiting from over $2.5 million in non-dilutive funding, 6.3 billion media impressions and connections to more than 100 industry executives spanning distribution, retail, manufacturing, venture capital and corporate innovation. These resources have helped participating companies increase visibility, secure strategic relationships and accelerate their path to commercialization.

Featuring both incubator and accelerator tracks, the Real California Milk Excelerator dairy innovation program supports emerging and growth-stage companies developing innovative, value-added dairy products. Cohort members receive support to move from product innovation to commercial success across categories including beverages, snacks, cultured dairy products, cheese, butter, nutrition-focused foods, functional foods, frozen desserts, personal care and pet products made with dairy ingredients.

Since inception, the program has helped drive multi-million-dollar growth and retail expansion at national retailers including Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market and Costco. The program’s incubator track has expanded its reach by helping promising early-stage concepts gain the expertise, industry connections and resources needed to advance toward commercialization. 

Building on that impact, and the success of alumni like Smearcase, Petit Pot and Cheese Bits, the 2026 program places increased emphasis on commercialization, retail readiness, investor access and AI-enabled growth strategies designed to help founders accelerate market adoption and scale more efficiently.

Selected companies will participate in a 10-week program combining mentorship, expert-led education and hands-on support from leaders across the dairy, food and retail ecosystems, with guidance spanning formulation, production, sales, marketing, retail strategy and commercialization. As a key enhancement for 2026, participants will gain access to AI-enabled sales, marketing, consumer insights and retail intelligence tools that can help identify market opportunities, analyze consumer trends, optimize go-to-market strategies and improve commercialization decisions.

Applications are open through July 24, 2026. Startups and entrepreneurs developing innovative dairy products made with at least 50% dairy are encouraged to apply.

Interested parties can apply, learn more about competition rules, key dates and the application process, and RSVP for an upcoming virtual information session by linking HERE.