The second in a three-part series on the advantages of U.S. dairy, this piece will explore the importance of a secure dairy supply. The world population is expanding and so are certain nutrition needs — this is where secure supply can help. The U.S. dairy industry is supporting this growth in demand by offering customers a consistent year-round supply of tasty nourishing and functional dairy ingredients.

Consumers want to relax after a long, busy day and are drawn to beverages that reduce stress and promote better sleep. The proteins derived from U.S. milk provide unmatched nutrition which may help consumers wake-up refreshed and energized.

Unmatched nutrition is just the beginning; milk also is the starting point for a wide-array of U.S. ingredients that deliver a range of health and wellness benefits. The ingredients derived from milk can replace unwanted ingredients, like salt and hydrogenated oils, and have the protein quality to assist with weight management and muscle strength. And that’s just the start.

Health professionals are just one of the sources for consumer information on the benefits of protein. Fitness, nutrition and culinary influencers promoting a high-protein diet have a large impact on the lifestyle decisions of their loyal followers, and as the influencers’ followers amass, so does the need for protein fortified products. U.S. dairy proteins have the ability to boost high-quality protein in products to help consumers meet the recommended 20 to 30 grams at each meal.

Digestive health and its relation to the immune system is a growing area of focus for consumers, leading into the new year. We’ve already seen a rise in everyday foods and beverages that contain added probiotics, but why? These products tout improved digestive health and a stronger immune system, and we expect the appetite for these benefits to rise in 2017. Fortunately, consumers’ favorite dairy offerings help incorporate probiotics into more products.