The Summer Fancy Food Show came to New York this summer. The Jacob Javits Convention Center was filled with the latest chocolates, cheeses, charcuterie and snack foods. 

Marketers of dairy foods and beverages need to understand the world view and the habits of the Millennial generation. For example, 40% shop once a week with a plan in mind and shopping list in hand; 26% are currently or would consider buying food from the online retailer Amazon. Many prefer to shop specialty stores like Trader Joe’s and health food stores like Whole Foods.

Milk production has slowed across much of the country. The combination of hot weather and typical seasonal declines is slowing availability of manufacturing milk.

Highlights from the Dairy Council of California’s Top 10 Nutrition Trends for 2014 report include: dairy fat may no longer be a villain in heart disease risk; milk and dairy foods are promising in prevention of metabolic syndrome and diabetes; and consumers’ interest grows in natural, functional, fresh foods.