Sales of milk products and ice cream increased 5.7% in 2012.

The Dairy Products Division (Canada) continues its investment strategy in product categories that offer growth potential, namely specialty cheeses and value-added milk products. The USA Dairy Products Sector continues to seek opportunities to mitigate the effect of higher milk costs resulting from amendments to the milk pricing formula in California.

The NCI Laureate Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the development and growth of the cheese industry. A panel of industry professionals chooses a winner each year based on the person's long-term contributions to the industry.

Speaking during the launch Harsha Moily - Founder and CEO, MYA said, "The fundamental reason for MYA's existence is to create wealth for the rural farmer. The launch of MILK ROUTE goes a long way towards achieving that objective. MILK ROUTE will not only focus on providing the most nutritious milk to the consumer, but will also help in ensuring that the dairy farmer gets a higher share of the end consumer price, as we reach out to urban consumers through our sales & distribution network."

Brian Perry received the Soaring Eagle award, which recognizes his service to the dairy industry, the IDFA and the International Ice Cream Association.

The dairy industry stands on the verge of a new era filled with enormous opportunity and unlimited potential, said IDFA president Connie Tipton. Saying that future success hinges on all stakeholders taking steps together, Tipton called for industry collaboration on renewed efforts to phase out federal milk pricing regulations and new legislation that would change the federal standards of identity for dairy products.