As of March 26, 22 U.S. states had issued stay-at-home orders, and many “nonessential” businesses had closed. But food and beverage manufacturers, including dairy processors, continue to operate as part of a subset of industries deemed essential to continued critical infrastructure viability.

The closure of workplaces and schools nationwide in the last several weeks is leading to increasing food insecurity for many Americans, including low-income families, housebound individuals and children unable to access free school breakfast and lunch.

Today’s dairy leaders are redefining what it means to be sustainable businesses by elevating good business practices, developing and implementing transportation and logistics solutions, ensuring the highest standards for animal welfare, and committing to and achieving environmental stewardship throughout their supply chains.

As the world continue to address the very real implications of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, Kraft Heinz Co., co-headquartered in Chicago and Pittsburgh, said it committed to donating $12 million globally to ensure people across the globe have the food they need during this challenging time.

Yogurt company Siggi’s announced the launch of Siggi’s Starters, a grant program aimed at supporting nutrition professionals seeking to develop innovative programs to bolster community nutrition and wellness.

The Winkler family of Brothers International Desserts Inc., Irvine, Calif., said it is taking over operations at Schoep’s Ice Cream in Madison, Wis.

Tillamook County Creamery Association said its recently released Farmstyle cream cheese spreads will be available for on-demand delivery exclusively on Postmates.

Prairie Farms Dairy Inc., an Edwardsville, Ill.-based dairy cooperative, said it partnered with the Humana Kentucky Derby Festival MiniMarathon and Marathon to be the chocolate milk refueling partner for the race.

Dairy Farmers of America Inc. (DFA) said an agreement has been reached with Dallas-based Dean Foods whereby the Kansas City, Kan.-based farmer-owned cooperative becomes the stalking horse bidder to acquire a “substantial portion” of Dean Foods’ assets and business.

Saputo Inc., Montreal, announced Lino Saputo, Jr.’s achievement as Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year for 2019, a prestigious award for chief executives in Canada.