News

Visit Highlights Dairy Industry Growth and Policy Priorities Supporting Nutrition, Manufacturing and the Dairy Supply Chain  CLEVELAND, Ohio, October 23, 2026 — The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and Miceli Dairy Products welcomed Rep. Shontel Brown (D-Ohio) to Miceli’s Cleveland facility for a tour and roundtable discussion with dairy leaders representing IDFA member companies across […]

Veteran food and agriculture executive returns to IDFA to build on association’s strong momentum and lead next chapter of growth and advocacy for U.S. dairy WASHINGTON, Oct. 21, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that its Executive Council has selected Matt Herrick to serve as the association’s next president and chief executive officer, […]

More than 85 projects underscore dairy’s position as a bright spot in American manufacturing WASHINGTON, Oct. 20, 2026—America’s dairy processors are investing more than $15 billion in new and expanded manufacturing capacity across 23 states, with more than 85 projects planned or underway through 2030, according to a new analysis from the International Dairy Foods […]

WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that Christopher Hylkema has joined the organization as Director, Dairy Regulatory Affairs & Policy, strengthening IDFA’s expertise across dairy food safety, regulatory compliance and Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) policy. In this role, Christopher Hylkema will lead IDFA’s work on PMO policy and implementation, support […]

WASHINGTON, September 2, 2026 – IDFA submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service Office of Multilateral Engagement regarding three draft regulations proposed by Indonesia to the WTO on updated requirements for Halal certification.

WASHINGTON, October 15, 2026 – IDFA joined a letter with other organizations representing or supporting dairy exporters from New Zealand, Australia, the United States and the European Union to express serious concern about the impact of new halal requirements that Indonesia is moving to implement.

WASHINGTON, October 14, 2026 – IDFA submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Administration on demonstration projects for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in 15 different states. Comments for the projects in Arkansas and North Dakota are included below.

WASHINGTON, October 15, 2026 – IDFA submitted comments to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration Human Foods Program Nutrition Center of Excellence with recommendations regarding Standard of Identity Modernization.

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner EA Risk. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Protein Labeling Claims; High Energy Cost Impacts; and State of the American Consumer in a […]

WASHINGTON, Oct. 13, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today shared its support for the FDA’s Final Rule allowing the use of salt substitutes in standardized foods. IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes released the following statement: “IDFA welcomes FDA’s final rule permitting the use of salt substitutes in standardized foods, including many dairy products […]

Part of IDFA’s Project Diversify initiative, new tool allows dairy leaders to pinpoint emerging markets with long-range growth potential for dairy exports WASHINGTON, Oct. 8, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today launched a new interactive web tool for informing the U.S. dairy industry’s export strategy. The tool, an interactive map, is the latest in […]

Feeding America CEO Denis McDonough joined IDFA board members and staff for service event highlighting dairy industry efforts to fight hunger and expand access to nutritious foods WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2026— The IDFA Foundation today brought together dairy industry leaders for a morning of volunteer service at the Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB), accompanied by […]

Association urges USTR to continue challenging extraterritorial EU requirements and secure relief for U.S. dairy manufacturers and farmers WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today warned that European Union due-diligence requirements are increasing costs and administrative burdens for U.S. dairy processors and farmers, including companies that do not sell products directly into […]

Dr. Samuel Alcaine to lead IDFA Regulatory and Scientific Affairs; Michelle Albee Matto, M.P.H., R.D.N., promoted to Vice President, Regulatory Affairs and Chief Nutrition Scientist WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2026—Roberta Wagner, senior vice president of regulatory and scientific affairs for the International Dairy foods Association (IDFA), announced her plans retire from the organization, effective February 15, […]

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner EA Risk. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Consumer Food Spending; Dairy Volume Sales at Retail; and Halloween Spending in a Minute! Quick […]

WASHINGTON, D.C., September 29, 2026—Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, released the following statement today welcoming the nomination of Greg Ibach to serve as Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture: “IDFA welcomes President Trump’s nomination of Greg Ibach to […]

Food insecurity is widespread across America—and rural communities face distinct pressures. Feeding America’s 2026 Map the Meal Gap estimates that 47.9 million people experienced food insecurity in 2024, while USDA reported 18.3 million food-insecure households. Rural counties account for 86% of the counties with the highest food-insecurity rates nationwide. Feeding America’s latest Elevating Voices findings […]

About CRB CRB is a leading provider of sustainable engineering, architecture, construction and consulting, delivering safe, high-quality, value-driven facilities to fuel your growth and success. Their team provides best-in-class solutions that drive success and positive change for their clients, their people and their communities. CRB is a privately held company with a rich history of […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube Advances in automation, artificial intelligence, membrane filtration and digital technologies are transforming the dairy processing plant. In this episode of The Dairy Download, we explore how innovation is helping dairy manufacturers improve efficiency, optimize operations and prepare for the future of dairy […]

Third major dairy commitment follows success on industry-wide reduction of added sugars in school milk and elimination of certified artificial colors in school milk, cheese and yogurt WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today joined U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, […]

IDFA sponsorship and member-donated products help bring dairy’s nutrition story directly to members of Congress, administration officials and their staff WASHINGTON, September 18, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) sponsored the All-American Meat Up at Nationals Park, joining partners from across the animal protein community to highlight for members of Congress, administration officials and their […]

WASHINGTON, September 16, 2026 – IDFA submitted comments to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative regarding the European Union’s (EU) Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and other cross-supply-chain regulatory measures, which are creating significant compliance challenges for U.S. dairy companies and their global business partners.

WASHINGTON, D.C., September 16, 2026—The Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry today moved a new five-year Farm Bill to the full Senate. Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), issued the following statement: “IDFA commends Chairman John Boozman and members of the Committee for their leadership and work […]

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner EA Risk. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Fluid Milk Growth; Grain Market Outlook; and the Job Market in a Minute! Quick Bites: Fluid […]

New IDFA x Morning Consult research shows Americans support the goals of healthier food policy—and want affordability, nutrition and access to guide how those goals are achieved. The national conversation around food and health is changing rapidly. Questions about ingredients, processing, chronic disease and the role of food in Americans’ health are now at the […]

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today urged U.S. and Canadian officials to return to constructive negotiations to resolve longstanding dairy trade concerns following a new U.S. ban on imports of certain whey and modified whey products from Canada, effective Sept. 29. “In response to the President’s Executive Order banning whey and […]

IDFA, NMPF and a coalition of dairy companies and cooperatives warn broad “ultra-processed” definition and warning labels would confuse consumers about nutritious dairy foods WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), joined by more than 76 dairy companies, cooperatives and state and regional producer organizations representing the […]

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), joined by more than 76 dairy companies, cooperatives and state and regional producer organizations representing the full spectrum of the U.S. dairy industry, today urged congressional leaders to reject S. 5026, the Childhood Diabetes Reduction Act of 2026, warning that the […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube Consumer priorities, retail trends and changing cattle markets are reshaping the outlook for both beef and dairy. In this episode of The Dairy Download, we explore what’s driving food purchasing decisions today and how evolving market dynamics are creating new opportunities across […]

Reagan-Udall Foundation report provides a science-based roadmap for industry, government and researchers to better understand and address emerging C. botulinum spore in powdered infant formula risk WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today welcomed the release of a new report from the Reagan-Udall Foundation for the FDA (Foundation) outlining a science-based roadmap […]

Visit Highlights Dairy Industry Growth and Need for Policies that Support Nutrition, Trade and Workforce Development WASHINGTON, D.C., September 2, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) welcomed Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) to Ovid, Michigan, for a tour of MMPA’s recently expanded milk ultrafiltration facility and a roundtable discussion […]

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner Ever.Ag. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Consumer Credit Situation; Surging Diesel Prices; and Global Milk in a Minute! Quick Bites: Surging Diesel Prices […]

Bipartisan legislation would provide consumers and businesses with a clear, consistent national framework for packaging claims Washington, D.C., September 1, 2026—Today, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade voted to advance H.R. 6832, the Packaging and Claims Knowledge Act, or PACK Act. Michael Dykes, president and CEO of the International Dairy […]

The Healthy Fluid Milk Incentive Project titled “Add Milk!” provides a dollar-for-dollar match to SNAP participants who purchase nutrient-dense, non-fat and low-fat (1%) milk products, including lactose-free options TULSA, Okla., August 31, 2026—A nutrition incentive program championed by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) to help low-income families purchase healthy fluid milk products is expanding […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws are transforming how companies think about packaging, creating new challenges and opportunities for dairy manufacturers. In this episode of The Dairy Download, we explore how evolving EPR requirements are influencing packaging decisions, sustainability strategies and business costs […]

As the 2026–2027 school year begins, dairy processors have delivered on back-to-back voluntary pledges to improve school meals—first reducing added sugars in flavored school milk and now eliminating certified artificial colors from school milk, cheese and yogurt WASHINGTON, August 24, 2026—As students across the country return to the classroom, the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) […]

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner Ever.Ag. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Quick Service Restaurant Update; Snacking Habits Among American Consumers; and Cheese Markets in a Minute! Quick […]

WASHINGTON, August 19, 2026—The Trump Administration has announced a three-day pause of the Section 338 tariffs that were slated to go into effect on August 19 on certain imports from Canada, including dairy products.  Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, released the following statement: “IDFA appreciates the Trump administration’s […]

Nominations now open for 2027 IDFA Laureate, Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year, Food Safety Leadership, and Workplace of the Year WASHINGTON, August 13, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is seeking nominations for four top awards presented annually to leaders in the dairy industry. Nominations open today and close on Friday, Oct. 2. Winners […]

WASHINGTON, August 6, 2026 – The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and a group of organizations representing a broad swath of food and agriculture, sent a letter to the Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee urging them to advance the Agricultural Act of 2026 in a bipartisan manner out of the Senate […]

Trade is essential to the success of the U.S. dairy industry. Supporting more than 3 million jobs and contributing $779 billion to the U.S. economy, dairy depends on access to global markets to sustain growth and create new opportunities for farmers, processors, and communities nationwide. In the span of a decade, that access has helped […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube Access to affordable, nutritious food is top of mind for families, retailers, policymakers and food assistance organizations. In this episode of The Dairy Download, we explore the critical role dairy plays in helping Americans access nutrient-dense foods while stretching their food dollars […]

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 10, 2026— Today, the Department of Health & Human Services with the Food and Drug Administration held an event hosted by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recognizing Trump Administration achievements and new food policy actions including a proposed GRAS rule. Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, released the […]

Expanding SNAP Dairy Nutrition Incentives and Strengthening Key Dairy Programs Should Be Top Priorities WASHINGTON, August 6, 2026—Today the U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee failed to advance legislation brought forth by Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) which would have provided long-term authorization of the Farm Bill and made policy improvements that would broaden dairy […]

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner Ever.Ag. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Shoppers Face Soaring Grocery Prices; U.S. Beef Cattle Herd at Historic Lows; and Back-to-School Spending in […]

WASHINGTON, July 31, 2026—U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-AR), today, released Farm Bill legislation that would broaden dairy nutrition incentives, strengthen key dairy programs and provide certainty in the agricultural economy.  The Chairman’s draft is another important step towards passing a Farm Bill this year following the U.S. House of […]

New IDFA analysis identifies Uzbekistan as strongest opportunity in region for U.S. dairy exports  WASHINGTON, July 30, 2026 — The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today released the second report in its Project Diversify initiative, a data-driven effort to identify high-growth global markets and expand opportunities for U.S. dairy exports.  With U.S. dairy exports at near […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube July is National Ice Cream Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate how ice cream continues to delight consumers through a combination of timeless favorites and innovative new flavors, formats, and experiences. In this episode of The Dairy Download, we are […]

WASHINGTON, July 28, 2026 – The International Dairy Foods Association submitted a letter to New York Governor Kathy Hochul  in support of a veto of New York’s “Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act” (S.1239F/A.1556G) due to concerns that the bill will increase food prices for consumers, thwart innovation in the dairy industry, and ultimately place […]

WASHINGTON, July 28, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that registration for Dairy Forum 2027 is now open. From January 24–27, 2027, more than 1,200 leaders from across the dairy supply chain will gather in Orlando, Florida, for the industry’s premier annual event. Hosted at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, Dairy Forum […]

WASHINGTON, July 23, 2026 — The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is in Mexico City this week to support ongoing review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Becky Rasdall Vargas, IDFA’s senior vice president of trade and workforce, is engaging with U.S. government officials and industry stakeholders to advance IDFA’s priorities: preserve USMCA and strengthen it […]

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner Ever.Ag. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Weather Impacts on Milk and Fat Production; Declining SNAP Participation; and the American Consumer in a […]

WASHINGTON, June 26, 2026 – The International Dairy Foods Association submitted a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade in support of the Packaging Claims Knowledge (PACK) Act.

WASHINGTON, July 20, 2026—Today, the White House issued three presidential proclamations pursuant to Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to impose additional 50% tariffs on certain goods from Canada in response to Canada’s discriminatory treatment of American products, including dairy. Michael Dykes, president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, released the […]

WASHINGTON, July 20, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced the 30 professionals selected for Cohort 8 of the NextGen Leadership Program, IDFA’s year-long leadership development experience for rising leaders across the dairy industry. The 2026-27 class includes professionals from IDFA member companies representing a broad mix of roles, organizations, dairy industry segments, and […]

IDFA survey finds cones, hot fudge and neighborhood ice cream trucks remain American favorites WASHINGTON, July 16, 2026 — Chocolate has reclaimed the title of America’s favorite ice cream flavor, while butter pecan has scooped past vanilla for second place, according to the International Dairy Foods Association’s latest National Ice Cream & Frozen Novelty Trends Survey. […]

New role builds on IDFA’s growing federal and state advocacy capacity, grassroots network and political engagement strategy WASHINGTON, July 15, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that Elizabeth “Liz” Demorest has joined the organization as director of PAC & political affairs, further strengthening the association’s advocacy and political engagement efforts on behalf of […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube New York is home to one of the nation’s leading dairy regions and continued investment of $2.8 billion across the dairy supply chain is helping drive growth, innovation and opportunity for farmers, processors and local communities. This episode of The Dairy Download […]

Read the latest issue of Dairy Market Drivers, a bi-weekly report from IDFA partner Ever.Ag. Dairy Market Drivers features spotlight data, key policy updates, and a one-minute video that covers timely topics for the dairy industry. Dairy Market Drivers: Spotlight on Beef; Fuel Costs Driving Consumer Behavior; and CME Dairy Markets in a Minute! Quick […]

WASHINGTON, July 6, 2026— The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today celebrated the European Union’s (EU) implementation of the U.S.-EU trade agreement, which opens new export opportunities for U.S. dairy. Among other wins, the agreement establishes tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) which will allow tariff-free access for up to 10,000 metric tons (mt) of U.S. cheese, and […]