NMPF: Why aren’t some Americans getting enough dairy nutrition?

New study reveals why some Americans lack enough dairy nutrition and offers a roadmap to improve diet quality

release date May 20, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. — Many Americans recognize dairy products as a cornerstone of a healthy diet, but they still don’t meet the recommended daily intake approved by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. An in-depth consumer survey released today by the International Food Information Council (IFIC) and supported by the International Dairy Products Association (IDFA) and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) reveals the barriers Americans face to dairy nutrition. We are investigating the barriers. .

This report provides a roadmap for how industry, government and the health and nutrition community can improve awareness of and access to lactose-free milk and dairy products. Broaden your understanding of the nutritional value of dairy products. We work with the dairy industry to extend shelf life and improve the value of dairy products for consumers.

This report is based on the dairy beliefs, behaviors, and perceptions of Black, Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander, and non-Hispanic white consumers.

Key data points:

• Missed opportunities to go lactose-free: Nearly two in three Americans say they have never consumed lactose-free milk (64%), lactose-free flavored milk (76%), or any other lactose-free dairy product other than cow’s milk (68%). I am. Non-uptake rates were more than half in Latinx, Black, and Asian/Pacific Islander communities, indicating lower awareness among groups reporting higher rates of lactose sensitivity.

• Affordability is a key factor for both SNAP and non-SNAP households. Approximately 30% of all races and ethnicities at all income levels cite affordability as a reason for consuming milk.

• Expiration dates and the biggest barrier to “passive avoidance”: The main reason why consumers avoid milk is concern about spoilage before use (19%). Meanwhile, 37% of respondents did not cite specific reasons for restricting dairy consumption, suggesting “passive avoidance” that could be overcome through increased media, medical and community outreach. . Self-reported lactose sensitivity also contributes to higher levels of avoidance.

• Top buying factors for taste and health, cheese reigns supreme: The most frequently consumed dairy product was cheese (90% weekly), followed by butter (85%), milk (75%), and yogurt (60%). Consumers overwhelmingly cite taste as the main factor in purchasing cheese, yogurt and milk, followed by dairy as a good source of protein. Bone health is the most recognized health benefit (90%), with other benefits including immune system support (65%) and heart health (54%). Masu.

Spotlighting the disconnect between perception and consumption

“Exploring food consumption patterns of liquid milk and dairy products to improve diet quality and nutritional equity” study reveals a disconnect between consumer perceptions and actual dairy intake became. An overwhelming majority of Americans (78%) believe that dairy products are essential, but many are not reaping the benefits.

“Good nutrition is the foundation of health and wellness for adults and children of all walks of life, and dairy products are an important part of a healthy diet starting at a very young age,” said RDN, MPH, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs. Michelle Matto said. and Nutrition, IDFA. “This research shows how consumers value the nutrition and taste of dairy products, but lack adequate information about and access to the types of dairy products that are right for them and their families. This shows that it is possible for dairy manufacturers to ensure that Americans receive adequate dairy nutrition, including high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and health benefits. This demonstrates the need for expanded partnerships with communities of color, health and nutrition experts, and policy makers to remove barriers that impede bone health outcomes. These include lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.”

Advance

NMPF Director of Regulation Michela Hanselmann said the study clearly shows that education efforts need to be stepped up.

“IFIC’s research brings data behind both the nutritional importance of dairy and the need for better education about what dairy options are available and what benefits they offer. “We’re working hard,” Hanselman said. “As discussions about the next dietary guidelines are underway, we are making this information available to everyone who could benefit, from consumers who need dairy nutrition to policy makers who decide on federal programs.” It’s important to communicate clearly and strongly.”

IFIC’s research highlights the importance of targeted support programs to improve overall diet quality and achieve greater nutritional equity.

“Dairy products are a chronically under-consumed food group for many Americans, but BIPOC and SNAP-eligible households would benefit the most from hearing more about the health benefits associated with consistent dairy consumption.” Education and outreach efforts to increase awareness and availability of lactose-free dairy products and beverages highlight the benefits of dairy products beyond bone health for all. and new opportunities,” said Wendy Reinhard Kapsak, MSc, RDN, President and CEO of IFIC. “Increasing consumption of dairy products across all populations will lead to improvements in diet quality and nutritional equity (availability, affordability, and affordability) that support improved health for all Americans.” Potential to make a positive contribution.”

of National Milk Producers Federationis based in Arlington, Virginia, and develops and implements policies that advance dairy producers and the cooperatives they own. NMPF member cooperatives produce more than two-thirds of the milk in the United States and are the voice of NMPF Dairy to Capitol Hill and government agencies.Learn more about www.nmpf.org.

–National Milk Producers Federation