Protein is an integral part of the daily diet, whether for strength training or for trying to preserve muscle mass throughout the aging process. A recently published review study in Nutrition and Metabolism¹ suggests that the quality of protein consumed for muscle building is more important than previously perceived, with whey protein’s high leucine content providing clear muscle benefits.

The U.S. dairy industry has continuously harnessed its innovation ingenuity to adapt to shifts in the consumer and market landscape, turning them into new product opportunities. Food scientist, editor and marketer Donna Berry, founder of BerryonDairy.com recently presented on what consumers are seeking from dairy-based foods and beverages.

Foodservice trends feature upgraded menu offerings thanks to an increased desire for bold-flavor cheeses and superior dining experiences. This expanded consumer appreciation of cheese is being addressed with inspiring new culinary creations and U.S. cheeses has more to offer than ever before with outstanding quality and variety.

Coffee and tea are popular day-to-day drinks and their desirability is on the rise with recent reports stating more consumers want a nutritious way to stay energized. Something as simple and nutritious as dairy paired with the possibilities in staple beverages can create successful beverages options worth further exploration.

Snacks now have a larger base in the food and beverage industry due to well-received innovation in the category. Snacks continue to get healthier, simpler and smaller as consumers’ health and wellness goals have become more prominent. The most recent snack trends target specific meal occasions such as breakfast, and U.S. dairy ingredients can deliver in these product development efforts.