Key Takeaways from the Dairy Products, Process & Packaging Innovation Conference The dairy industry is changing, are you ready for what it's about to bring?

In February, Camille, traveled to California to learn from industry leaders about the state of the dairy industry and new innovations that are coming to the market. From learning about the importance of market insights, such as the number one indicator on if a household is going to be a dairy consumer is if they have children. To formulating to meet consumer demand, making shopping easier on the consumer and letting them know what's included in your food products. There was so much good information that it might take a couple news articles to fit it all! 

Some interesting marketing insights that we can use in our own marketing here in Kentucky are all about certain health aspects of dairy and focusing on the correct demographic for your product. 

• Consumers are seeking real, minimally processed foods for better nutrition and transparency. Dairy can fit this demand perfectly by offering natural, nutrient-rich options like milk, yogurt, and cheese that provides essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals without unnecessary additives. Consumers are turning back to real foods, and dairy is in a great position to meet those demands. 

• Milk, cheese, and yogurt are mostly associated with younger consumers. If you are creating a targeted marketing strategy, tailor your messaging to resonate with those consumers 

• Butter and cottage cheese are typically associated with our older consumers. How can we market those products to that demographic? 

• Consumers are looking for PROTEIN!! The higher the protein, the better. Many consumers are shifting to a health-conscious life, focusing on hitting a higher percentage of protein in their daily diet. The dairy industry in Kentucky can use the demand for protein to highlight the health aspects of eating local dairy products. 

• Home in on your social media! Cottage cheese went from a “bland” food to a phenomenon overnight thanks to the social media platform, TikTok. Social media is such a useful marketing tool. 

While these are just a few insights she learned there are SO many more that could make this article over 10 pages! As the dairy industry in Kentucky continues to evolve, we need to focus on technological advancements and consumer-driven product innovations. Looking for some additional dairy resources? Check out the MarketReady Dairy webpage where we have fact sheets from local Buyers, data on consumer trends, and resources for our small ruminant producers. Click here for more information.