What to do about falling U.S. milk consumption

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Milk consumption in the United States is sliding faster than at any time in nearly 20 years, and the industry is split on what to do about it.

Per capita consumption in 2011 was 75 litres, down 3.3 per cent from the previous year and the biggest single year drop since 1993. Per capita consumption has fallen almost 30 per cent since 1975. Sales in the first part of 2012 were down another 2.9 per cent. As in Canada, more dairy products are being eaten in the form of cheese and yogurt.

High grain prices and a rise in the cost of milk is one reason for the decline. As in Canada, there is competition from other drinks such as bottled energy drinks. The industry is fighting back by slagging non-dairy alternatives, promoting high protein versions and pumping out milk in different size containers. The one gallon jug (3.8 litres) is still a standard. BF