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.

Related Stories
FarmHER Chris Nellis and her daughters navigate loss while carrying on a 300-year farm legacy, milking cows in upstate New York.
Mixed product pricing and rising milk supplies suggest margin management will remain critical as 2026 unfolds.
Meat stocks rose seasonally but remain below last year overall, while tighter butter inventories could support dairy prices, and belly stocks warrant close watch for pork markets.
Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss rural mental health awareness, the importance of reducing stigma in agriculture, and resources available to farmers, ranchers, and rural families seeking support.
Utah Senator John Curtis joins us for “Champions of Rural America” to discuss new legislation to improve forest management and wildfire prevention and its broader implications for rural communities and infrastructure.
NRECA CEO Jim Matheson joins us to discuss rural electric co-ops’ push for expanded USDA loan programs, rising energy demand from data center expansion, wildfire mitigation and other policy priorities impacting rural power infrastructure.
StoneX’s Josh Linville discusses USDA’s efforts to boost domestic fertilizer production and his outlook on supply and prices.
With the Farm Bill now in the Senate’s hands, industry groups say the stakes are high—and timely action could be critical for producers navigating a difficult economic environment.
The Texas Department of Agriculture confirmed a New World Screwworm case about 119 miles from the Texas border, near Zapata, Texas, and north and west of the Rio Grande Valley.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
RFD-TV’s newest music series, “On the Record,” presented by John Deere, takes viewers on a journey through the heart of country music. Hosted by renowned broadcaster, Suzanne Alexander, the show features long-form interviews with today’s biggest artists and the veterans who inspired them. “On the Record” also gives viewers a front row seat to intimate performances and exclusive music video releases, highlighting the broad scope of Nashville’s talent.