Many Americans consider dairy products a cornerstone of a healthy diet, but they continue to fall below the recommended daily intake as approved by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. A detailed consumer survey released Thursday, May 16, 2024 by the International Food Information Council (IFIC) and supported by the International Dairy Association (IDFA) and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) explores the barriers to dairy nutrition Americans and how to remove them.
The report provides a roadmap for how industry, government, health and nutrition groups can improve awareness of and access to lactose-free milk and dairy products; Expand understanding of the nutritional value of dairy products; We work with the dairy industry to extend shelf life and increase the value of dairy purchases to consumers.
The report draws on Black, Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Non-Hispanic White consumers’ beliefs, behaviors, and perceptions of dairy products.
Key Data Points:
- Missed Opportunities for Lactose-Free: Nearly two in three Americans say they never consume lactose-free milk (64%), lactose-free flavored milk (76%), or other lactose-free dairy products other than milk (68%). Among Latino, Black, and Asian/Pacific Islander communities, the rate of nonconsumption is more than half; this suggests lower awareness among groups reporting higher lactose intolerance.
- Affordability is the Leading Factor for SNAP and Non-SNAP Households: Nearly 30% of all races and ethnicities at all income levels cite affordability as a reason for consuming milk.
- Expiration Dates and the Top Obstacles of “Passive Avoidance”: Concern about spoilage before use (19%) is the primary reason consumers avoid milk. Meanwhile, 37% of respondents gave no specific reason for limiting dairy consumption; This indicated that “passive avoidance” could be overcome with more media, health services and social support. Self-reported lactose intolerances also contribute to higher levels of avoidance.
- Taste and Health Top Buying Factors, Cheese Reigns Supreme: Cheese is the most frequently consumed dairy product (90%), followed by butter (85%), milk (75%) and yoghurt (60%). Consumers overwhelmingly view taste as the main factor in purchasing cheese, yoghurt and milk, followed by dairy products as a good source of protein. The health benefits cited include bone health (90%), the most well-known, and other benefits such as immune system support (65%) and heart health (54%).
Clarifying the Disconnection Between Perception and Consumption
The study, “Exploring Fluid Milk and Dairy Products Consumption Patterns to Improve Diet Quality and Nutrition Equity,” reveals the disconnect between consumer perception and actual dairy intake. While a strong majority of Americans (78%) believe dairy is necessary, many do not see its benefits.
“Good nutrition is the foundation of health and wellness for adults and children of all demographics, and dairy is a crucial part of a healthy diet that starts at a very young age,” said Michelle Matto, RDN, MPH, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs. and nutrition, IDFA. “This research shows how consumers value dairy products for nutrition and taste, but they may not have enough information or access to the right types of dairy products for them and their families. This is a reflection of Americans’ need for high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and health benefits.” “It shows that the dairy industry needs to expand partnerships with diverse communities, health and nutrition experts, and policymakers to remove barriers that prevent people from getting adequate dairy nutrition, including better bone health and lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.”
Forward
Miquela Hanselman, NMPF’s director of regulatory affairs, said the survey clearly shows the need for more education efforts.
“The IFIC study puts data behind both the importance of a dairy diet and the need for better education about what dairy options are available and what benefits they provide,” Hanselman said. “As discussion of the next Dietary Guidelines continues, it is important that this information is communicated clearly and forcefully to all who may benefit, from consumers who need dairy nutrition to policymakers who set federal programs.”
IFIC research underscores the importance of targeted outreach programs to improve overall nutrition quality and achieve greater nutritional equity.
While dairy products are a chronically underconsumed food group among many Americans, BIPOC and SNAP-eligible households may benefit most from learning more about the health benefits of consistent dairy consumption. “In addition to highlighting the benefits of dairy products beyond bone health for everyone, education and outreach efforts to increase awareness and availability of lactose-free dairy foods and beverages present new opportunities,” said IFIC President and CEO Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak, MS, RDN.” “Increased dairy consumption across all populations can positively contribute to improving diet quality and nutrition equity (availability, accessibility, and affordability) that support improved health for all Americans.”