Originally Published in January 2018, Updated in 2022
The beginning of the year is a time for reflection and resolutions, and dairy is in the buzz. Whether it’s in social circles or social media, there seems to be a lot of discussion about dairy’s role in a sustainable food system. It’s a good time to set the record straight about dairy consumption, and to spread the good word that California dairy families are leading the way in sustainable farming practices, especially in combating climate change.
Despite the competition from plant-based drinks and other milk alternatives, overall dairy consumption is at an all-time high. Although Americans are drinking less fluid milk, they’ve been consuming more cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and butter, among other dairy-based products and ingredients. Over the past 45 years, total U.S. dairy consumption per-capita has continued to increase.
It’s not surprising that consumption of dairy products is on the rise—they’re delicious and nutritious. Additionally, dairy is an increasingly sustainable source of nutrition, something that more and more consumers are concerned about. In California, dairy farming plays an integral role in the food system and economy. Dairy farms repurpose waste from food production and processing byproducts (including almond hulls and citrus pulp), purchase supplies and services from other local businesses, and provide an estimated 180,000 jobs. The U.S. already ranks among other leading countries with the lowest carbon “hoofprint” per unit of milk, and California dairies are now taking this achievement to the next level by further reducing methane emissions.
California dairy farm families have been fighting climate change for decades, by increasing efficiency (producing more milk with fewer cows), converting diesel use to electricity, utilizing renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and most recently, improving manure management. California is now leading the nation with the greatest amount of methane emission reductions made via the use of dairy manure digesters. With the recent announcement of grant recipients for alternative manure management (non-digester) projects, more dairy farms across the state will be boosting their efforts to avoid or reduce methane emissions from manure. Additionally, research efforts continue to explore the potential to reduce enteric fermentation (emissions that come directly from animals).
Reducing methane emissions is just one aspect of environmental stewardship and overall sustainability. California’s more than 1,100 dairy farm families continually strive to conserve and protect water resources and improve air quality, all while ensuring the highest level of animal care and welfare. While U.S. dairy consumption has been on the rise, the number of dairy farms in California has been steadily declining. Substantially higher labor costs, energy costs, and regulatory requirements make it increasingly difficult for dairy farmers and processors alike. Like every good New Year’s resolution, moderation is the key to success. We must strive to create solutions that are both financially and environmentally sustainable, allowing our dairy families to carry on their tradition of producing nutritious and affordable foods consumers love.
Consumers can have their cheese and eat it too, as California’s dairy families continue to achieve unparalleled milestones and secure dairy’s role in a sustainable food system.
