These days, a press release for a plant-based dairy alternative is almost as likely to hit my email inbox as one for a genuine dairy product.

Demand for protein on the part of consumers continues to be strong. According to the American Dairy Products Institute (ADPI), Elmhurst, Ill., 68% of Americans surveyed in 2017 said they wanted to consume more protein, compared to 50% in 2016.

According to new research published by New York-based IBISWorld, the United States is home to more than 1,200 dairy processing businesses. With that many players in the industry, it can be difficult for one company to find ways to stand out.

There's been little reason for cultured dairy processors to celebrate in recent months. During the 52 weeks ending Feb. 24, 2019, most major cultured dairy categories/subcategories saw retail dollar sales fall, according to data from Chicago-based market research firm IRI.

Sustainability means different things to different people and organizations, considering environmental, economic and social aspects.

Tasty and versatile, cheese has long been a favorite food and ingredient of U.S. consumers. But recent sales data suggest the cheese segment has been struggling a bit, at least at retail. Dollar sales within the retail processed cheese category fell 3.7% to $2.8 billion during the 52 weeks ending Jan. 27, 2019, according to data from Chicago-based market research firm IRI. Unit sales declined by 4.1%.

It's time to celebrate milk - real milk, that is. World Milk Day, an event established by the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) back in 2001 to recognize the importance of milk as a global food, will take place on June 1.

It's no secret that food recalls can wreak havoc on a dairy processing company, damaging both sales and brand reputation. And one of the major causes of food recalls across the food and beverage industry is bacterial contamination.

Constantine, Mich., bills itself as the "seed corn capital of the world," producing more than 10% of the United States' supply. But this Southwest Michigan town hasn't completely "gone to seed." It also lays claim to a dairy processing powerhouse operated by the Novi, Mich.-based Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA).

When it comes to monikers for dairy cooperatives, Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) is something of a misnomer. The name somewhat belies the fact that the Novi, Mich.-based operation serves nearly 1,600 dairy farmer-owners residing not only in Michigan, but also in Indiana, Ohio and Wisconsin.