From Tailgating to TikTok, Dairy Industry Scores Big This Fall

Cottage cheese sales are on the rise across the U.S., and industry leaders believe interest on social media is contributing to the surge in consumer demand.

Cottage cheese sales are on the rise across the U.S., and a Wisconsin cooperative creamery is investing more than $14 million to modernize its facility. They explain why they believe consumer demand is surging.

“It is nutrient-dense, lower-calorie, and it’s an affordable protein source as well. We know the cost of groceries in general is going up everywhere. So this is a nice option for people who are looking to have that higher protein diet. Another factor is that we know that GLP-1 pharmaceuticals protein intake is really important for people who are on those pharmaceuticals. And so again, this is a great source of protein for people.”

Trends on social media are also driving the surge in demand, with influencers showing off an array of recipes using cottage cheese.

“We’re responding to that with a modernization project that will update our cottage cheese-making facility. Right now, our orders are 15 to 20% higher than our production capacity. We are oversold at this time. So, with this project, we’ll be able to meet that demand.”

As football season kicks off, agricultural leaders say it is another perfect time to put dairy on the game day menu. One group says they’re working hard to make the fall pastime profitable for local dairy farmers.

“So, Midwest Dairy is dedicated to listening to consumers and bringing dairy to life at the retail level to increase usage of dairy for the benefit of dairy farmers. Our objective is to grow the entire dairy category and support retail initiatives to increase consumer demand. Checkoff works hard to capitalize on certain times of the year, like tailgating, to showcase dairy products in unique and exciting ways, to connect with consumers, and drive incremental sales.”

If you would like to check out some tailgating with a focus on dairy or try some trendy cottage cheese recipes, visit the Midwest Dairy website.

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