Acid whey disposal used to be an issue. A ‘natural’ blue color wasn’t available. And dairy processors want to reduce sugars. Suppliers developed solutions to all of these concerns.

Wholesale prices for butter reached a record high at the CME Group this year. The outlook is that U.S. demand for butter will ease. It is also possible that foreign butter will come to America.

There’s nothing like a jolt of caffeine to wake up beverage sales. The energy drink sector also gained, but the almond milk category performed even better.

Ice cream production has increased for three years in a row. Processors of ice cream, gelato and frozen novelties find success with sweet-and-salty combinations, candy bar inclusions and cocktail-inspired flavors.

Cheesemakers face regulatory and retailer requirements as they try to meet consumer preferences for flavors and nutrition.

Yogurt is in its glory days as processors are getting innovative and trying to change the conversation. It’s not all just about Greek yogurt anymore in this ever-changing, hot category.

Dairy Foods selected Dairy Farmers of America as the 2014 recipient of the Tom Camerlo Exporter of the Year. 

Makers of breakfast cereals are natural allies of milk processors. Athletic organizations help to promote chocolate milk. And milk processors, using industry-funded research, are developing high-protein, valued-added beverages.

DMI, Rosemont, Ill., which is funded by dairy farmers through the checkoff program, said it is assisting in product development, consumer insights, nutritional consulting, technical and formulation support and introductions to perspective marketplace partners.