The U.S. organic market is experiencing strong expansion, with organic food and farming continuing to gain in popularity, according to the latest Organic Trade Association survey.

USDA's Dairy Market News reports that cheese production across the U.S. is mixed. Some of the Southern regions are past peak milk production. The northern edge of the Central region is slow to show a spring flush this year, while much of the Midwest is experiencing increasing volumes. 

Dairy Market News says yogurt was the most-advertised dairy category this week. Advertisements for butter and cream cheese declined after Easter and Passover.

Milk production is showing increases throughout the East with greening forage, improved cow comfort, and cow and heifer calving. Production volumes in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic are increasing. 

Convenience is the key. Shred it, grate it, crumble it. Consumers like their cheese ready-to-go, whether it’s natural or processed, though natural is still winning the game. 

Unit sales of whole milk declined slightly but dollar sales rose in the last year. Meanwhile, the larger low-fat milk category saw declines in dollars and units. 

Frozen yogurt sales continue to rise above the rest, while ice cream sales stay frozen in place. The frozen novelty and ice pop novelty categories were both down.

 Sales are up for makers of natural cheese slices, chunks and shreds, while the processed cheese category continues to struggle. 

 Dollar and unit sales for refrigerated coffee and tea are rising. Research indicates year-round demand for cold, ready-to-drink coffee beverages, especially by Millennials.