New Study Shows Younger Consumers are Driving Stronger Demand for Dairy Products

Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation shares how teens are helping fuel stronger demand for traditional U.S. dairy products.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — A new consumer perception tracker shows strong trust in dairy products, with younger consumers helping drive the trend.

Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest findings from Dairy Management Inc.’s ongoing consumer trust study.

The research tracks changing attitudes toward dairy products and how different generations view the industry.

In his conversation with RFD News, Bjerga says dairy has often been viewed as a product more associated with older consumers, but recent trends suggest younger generations are showing renewed interest in dairy.

“It doesn’t take a lot to figure out what the implications are for this industry. It means things like the increase in cottage cheese consumption we’ve seen in recent years,” Bjerga told RFD News. “The rising consumption of whole milk, and the turn away from plant-based beverages we’ve seen over the last five years. This is something that’s taking on roots, and you really can see it generationally.”

He says dairy farmers themselves deserve credit for helping build trust with consumers, as well as Dairy Management Inc.’s efforts to connect with younger audiences.

Bjerga adds that exports continue to become more important to the dairy industry and stressed the importance of supporting American dairy producers and manufacturers.

Related Stories
Record Choice grading levels are changing how beef quality premiums are valued.
The closure of Lubbock Feeders highlights mounting pressure on the U.S. cattle supply, according to the Texas Cattle Feeders Association, as border restrictions and costs strain feedyards.
Liquidity management and cost control will matter most in 2026.
Food demand is stable but price-sensitive across rural markets. For agriculture and rural communities, the important signal is not optimism — it is stability.
Stable blending demand continues to underpin corn use despite export volatility.
At Commodity Classic in San Antonio, growers explore new herbicide options, John Deere’s latest 8 Series tractors, and cutting-edge ag technology shaping the 2026 planting season. Here are some of RFD NEWS’ highlights from the event so far.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.