News

WASHINGTON, June 30, 2026— The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today shared its support for the Securing Agriculture Workforce Act, introduced by Chairman G.T. Thompson. IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes released the following statement: “Dairy farms and processors alike operate year-round and need access to a reliable workforce. Modernizing the H-2A program to meet the workforce needs […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube Dairy continues to shape the way restaurants innovate—appearing across menus in familiar favorites and trend-forward applications. This episode of The Dairy Download explores how dairy is being used to deliver flavor, functionality and versatility and how it’s evolving in today’s foodservice landscape. […]

SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 26, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today urged the Packaging Producer Responsibility Advisory Board to support the Circular Action Alliance’s proposed plan  to provide temporary exemptions for common rigid and flexible plastic materials used in dairy product packaging from SB 54’s performance goals. Danielle Quist, IDFA vice president of regulatory affairs […]

WASHINGTON, June 26, 2026 – The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and its members submitted a letter to express support for Pennsylvania Senate Bill 481 that will increase permitted hauling weights for fluid milk.

WASHINGTON, June 25, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced today the promotion of Tom Wojno to executive vice president, chief strategy & operating officer, a newly created position that reflects IDFA’s continued focus on strategic growth, operational excellence and delivering greater value for its members. IDFA also announced the promotions of three team members […]

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: Protein Demand and Supply; New Zealand Milk Production; and The Fourth of July in a Minute! […]

It all starts with a drop of milk. From that first drop, dairy connects people, fuels communities and delivers essential nutrition to millions of Americans every single day. Throughout June Dairy Month 2026, IDFA and its members came together to celebrate the many ways dairy powers health, policy, communities and opportunity across the country. From […]

WASHINGTON, June 23, 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 […]

MADISON, Wisc., June 22, 2026—The IDFA Foundation and several leading Wisconsin-based dairy companies donated 156 cases of American and Cheddar cheese and $7,000 to Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin today to help reduce hunger across the region. The donation was announced during a three-hour service event at Second Harvest Foodbank, where 25 dairy industry […]

Soubra returns to lead IDFA’s NextGen Leadership Program, strengthen board and member engagement, and execute against the organization’s new strategic plan WASHINGTON, June 22, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) announced today that Heather Soubra has rejoined the association as senior vice president, strategic initiatives and industry relations. In this role, Soubra will lead IDFA’s […]

WASHINGTON, June 17, 2026— The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today welcomed new Trump administration guidance clarifying how dairy operations may use the H-2A temporary agricultural worker program when they can demonstrate a qualifying temporary or seasonal labor need under existing law. IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes released the following statement: “IDFA appreciates President […]

WASHINGTON, June 10, 2026— As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, one tried-and-true American tradition continues to bring people together on Capitol Hill: ice cream. Thousands of lawmakers, staff and federal officials gathered Wednesday for the International Dairy Foods Association’s (IDFA) 42nd Annual Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party, celebrating America’s favorite frozen treat and […]

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: Ice Cream Trends; Celebrating June Dairy Month; and Consumer Sentiment in a Minute! Quick Bites: Celebrating June […]

WASHINGTON, June 8, 2026 – The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) submitted joint comments in support of the recent USDA Food and Nutrition Service final rule, “Expanding Fluid Milk Options in Child Nutrition Programs.”

By Michelle A. Matto, MPH, RDN, vice president, regulatory affairs and nutrition, IDFA In today’s world, where the cost of living continues to rise, finding affordable yet nutritious food options is paramount, especially for low-income families. An updated analysis from the International Dairy Foods Association demonstrates that no other food product provides the same nutritional […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube From advancing innovation in milk protein to unlocking the benefits of fiber and prebiotics, this episode of The Dairy Download explores the science and strategy driving the next generation of dairy products. In this discussion, we look at how dairy companies are […]

WASHINGTON, June 1, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced an expansion of its government relations and advocacy operations to strengthen the association’s federal and state engagement on behalf of the dairy industry. The expanded team is led by Chelsie Keys, senior vice president, government relations, and includes Rob Rosado, vice president, legislative affairs, who for six […]

WASHINGTON, May 28, 2026 —The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today said a new U.S. International Trade Commission’s (USITC) report on global competitive conditions in the nonfat solids (NFS) market highlights strong U.S. and global demand for milk-based protein and offers timely analysis of global dairy pricing and production policies as the United States prepares […]

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: U.S. Agricultural Exports to China; Butter Supply and Demand; and Pizza in a Minute! Quick Bites: Butter […]

WASHINGTON, May 22, 2026—Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), released the following statement today in support of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s approval of the BUILD America 250 Act, the bipartisan, five-year surface transportation reauthorization bill. “IDFA applauds Chairman Sam Graves and Ranking Member Rick Larsen for […]

WASHINGTON, May 21, 2026—Members of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) donated more than 2,700 ice cream novelties and handheld frozen treats for this year’s White House Congressional Picnic, sharing a timeless American favorite with Members of Congress, administration officials and their families gathered on the White House South Lawn. “Ice cream is one of […]

The International Dairy Foods Association’s NextGen Leadership Program is building the next generation of dairy leaders. Designed for emerging leaders ready to advance their careers, the program brings together professionals from across the dairy value chain to strengthen leadership skills, expand networks, and deepen their engagement in industry advocacy. Through this experience, participants gain the […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube From bringing global products to new consumers to honoring deep cultural roots in dairy, this episode highlights the connections shaping the industry during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. In this discussion, we explore how teams are balancing authenticity with innovation, […]

IDFA Officers forming committee to lead CEO transition process as Dykes continues leading the association through Dec. 2026 WASHINGTON, May 15, 2026—Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) recently announced his plans to retire at the end of 2026, concluding a decade of leadership marked by significant industry growth, […]

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: Restaurant Traffic Update; Nonfat Dry Milk Prices on the Rise; and Grilling Season in a Minute! […]

WASHINGTON, May 7, 2026—The U.S. Department of Agriculture today issued an interim final rule implementing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, restoring flexibility for schools and child nutrition providers participating in federal Child Nutrition Programs to offer whole and reduced-fat (2%) milk options to children and adults ages 2 and older. Michael Dykes, D.V.M., […]

The farm bill is back, and this cycle presents a meaningful opportunity. As the legislation advances to the Senate, dairy is gaining visibility as a priority within nutrition policy and incentive‑based programs that expand access to healthy dairy products. For IDFA, the bill is especially consequential as the primary legislative vehicle for advancing key industry […]

SAN DIEGO, May 5, 2026—The IDFA Foundation and several leading dairy companies donated 12,960 units of shelf-stable milk and $6,000 to Feeding San Diego food bank yesterday to address hunger in San Diego County. The donations were announced at a two-hour service event at the food bank where more than 30 dairy food company executives […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube From smart trailers to real-time data, technology is transforming how dairy moves from farm to table. In this episode of The Dairy Download, we explore the real-world challenges of transporting temperature-sensitive products, the cold chain innovations, and how AI is changing the […]

WASHINGTON, May 4, 2026—Scoops, smiles, and bipartisan camaraderie will return to Capitol Hill this summer as the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) hosts its 42nd Annual Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party on June 10. One of Washington’s longest-running summer traditions, the Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party draws thousands of attendees each year, including members of […]

Inaugural report identifies western Africa as a high-potential emerging market WASHINGTON, May 1, 2026 – Building on record-setting export momentum, the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced the launch of Project Diversify, a new data-backed initiative designed to identify high-growth global markets and expand opportunities for U.S. dairy exports. U.S. dairy exports reached nearly […]

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2026—The U.S. House of Representatives today advanced the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (Farm Bill), legislation that would expand dairy nutrition incentives in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and strengthen key dairy programs. Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, released the following […]

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today testified before the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health in support of the Codifying Useful Regulatory Definitions (CURD) Act (H.R.1394), bipartisan legislation that would establish a federal definition for the term “natural cheese.” Chad Hamilton, JD, MBA, a member of IDFA’s Cheese Industry […]

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: GLP-1 Drug Impacts on Eating Habits; Tax Refunds and Consumer Spending; and Global Milk Output in […]

Biannual survey shows butter pecan also surpassing vanilla among U.S. consumers WASHINGTON, April 29, 2026—Chocolate has reclaimed its place as America’s favorite ice cream flavor, according to the International Dairy Foods Association’s (IDFA) biannual National Ice Cream & Frozen Novelty Trends Survey. After vanilla took the top spot in 2024, this year’s results show chocolate […]

WASHINGTON, April 28, 2026 – IDFA joined a coalition of organizations representing food and ingredient manufacturer and suppliers to send a letter in support of Representative Schmidt’s Amendment # 204 to H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, which would direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of […]

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today welcomed action by the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration to advance its FY2027 funding bill, including key dairy priorities. Michael Dykes, president and CEO of IDFA, released the following statement: “IDFA applauds the Subcommittee for maintaining strong support […]

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube In this episode, we’re joined by two leaders who reflect on the lessons that have shaped their careers and how they can inspire the next generation of leaders — all while navigating the growth of their respective companies and moving the entire dairy […]

WASHINGTON, April 17, 2026 -IDFA joins more than 330 organizations representing farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses across all 50 states to in a letter to urge the U.S. House of Representatives to take action on Farm Bill 2.0.

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2026 -IDFA submitted comments in response to the Section 301 investigation regarding the Acts, Policies, and Practices of Certain Economies Relating to Structural Excess Capacity and Production in Manufacturing Sectors announced by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2026 – IDFA submitted comments in response to the Section 301 investigation regarding the Acts, Policies, and Practices of Various Economies Related to the Failure to Impose and Effectively Enforce a Prohibition on the Importation of Goods Produced with Forced Labor announced by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

Newport Blueberry Lemonade Crumble by HP Hood LLC Wins Most Innovative Ice Cream Flavor; Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pie Sandwich by Hudsonville Ice Cream Takes Home Honor of Most Innovative Ice Cream Novelty NAPLES, Fla., April 16, 2026—Bold ideas and unexpected flavors took the spotlight as ice cream and cultured dairy innovators gathered for the […]

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2026 – IDFA and National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) sent a letter to the Oklahoma Senate Agriculture and Wildlife Committee to oppose HB 3056, which would allow raw milk to be sold beyond the farm.

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: SNAP Program Driving Dairy Demand; an Update on U.S. Cheese Exports; and Inflation in a Minute! […]

WASHINGTON, April 13, 2026 – IDFA submitted comments to the U.S. International Trade Commission regarding the effects on the U.S. economy of revoking China’s Permanent Normal Trade Relations status.

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2026—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that Maggie McClain will join the organization as vice president, communications, effective April 20, 2026. McClain brings nearly two decades of strategic communications and public affairs experience across the food, agriculture and health sectors, with expertise in media relations, executive positioning, issues management, and […]

WASHINGTON, April 9, 2026 – IDFA submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding opportunities, challenges, and emerging priorities in USDA statistical data, analysis, and research. For the U.S. dairy sector, timely, trusted, and granular USDA data is foundational to efficient markets, risk management, long-term capital investment, and global competitiveness.

Subscribe now to listen on your favorite podcast platform Apple Podcasts |  Spotify | RSS | YouTube Tune in to the latest episode of The Dairy Download to explore what is driving innovation across the dairy space, from the rapid evolution of high-protein products to the growing demand of better-for-you formulations that still deliver on taste! We’re joined by […]

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2026—The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded Auburn University’s Hunger Solutions Institute (HSI) a $2.99 million grant, using FY2025 funding appropriated by Congress, to expand SNAP Healthy Fluid Milk Incentives (HFMI) projects across 169 SNAP-authorized retail stores in nine states. The award includes 75 new HFMI locations in Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, […]

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 Demand for Beef; Diesel on the Rise; and Easter Spending in a Minute! Quick Bites: Diesel […]

WASHINGTON, March 23, 2026 – IDFA joined a group of organizations representing America’s food, beverage, ingredient, agricultural, and retail industries in sending a letter in support of House Bill 1004 to Chairwoman Pamela G. Beidle and Members of the Maryland Senate Finance Committee.

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 Demand for Protein; Gas Prices Rising; and Butter in a Minute! Quick Bites: Gas Prices on […]

About Domino North America Domino North America is the U.S. and Canadian division of Domino Printing Sciences. They offer a comprehensive suite of industrial printing, coding, and marking solutions engineered to perform in the most challenging production environments. Core product offerings include Ink Jet, Laser, and Print & Apply Labeling solutions specializing in traceability and […]

About E. Hofmann Plastics E. Hofmann Plastics makes rigid packaging for food, chemical and construction industries. Their current facility has injection molding, thermoforming, and extrusion capabilities all under one roof. We have the capabilities of multiple types of decoration including in mold labels and dry offset printing. For over 25 years, the goal at E. […]

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Testimony of Joe Shockey to the West Virginia House Education Committee (3/5/26)

WASHINGTON, March 5, 2026—The U.S. House Agriculture Committee today advanced the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (Farm Bill), legislation that would expand dairy nutrition incentives in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and strengthen key dairy programs. During markup, the committee adopted an amendment sponsored by Reps. Tony Wied (R-WI) and Josh […]

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: Retail Fourth Quarter Performance; Fluid Milk Update; and U.S. Dairy Exports in a Minute! Quick Bites: Fluid […]

WASHINGTON, March 3, 2026— The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that Adam Tarr has been named Vice President of Legislative Affairs, effective March 9. Tarr brings 20 years of federal policy experience spanning Capitol Hill, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and government affairs consulting with deep expertise in agriculture, climate, conservation, and food […]

March 2, 2026 – IDFA and NMPF sent a letter today requesting that milk, yogurt, and cheese be explicitly exempted from the added sugar limits proposed in legislation currently being considered by the West Virginia state legislature.