Vinegar-based functional beverages have been around for centuries. This traditional ingredient is resurfacing in beverages through switchels reappearing on shelves. Thanks to dairy’s nutrition, our take on the Switchel has high-quality protein produced by dedicated U.S. farmers who are focused on animal care and environmental stewardship.

In this four-part series, we will explore the unique dairy prototypes being served by USDEC at the Institute of Food Technologies (IFT) Annual Meeting and Food Expo 2017. First up is the Frozen Matcha Dairy Bar, which includes a matcha-flavored yogurt filling between two crispy oat wafers. Sound good? Come try it during IFT17 — USDEC will have samples to try at Booth 2270. If you’re not attending, you can read more about it in the formula sheet available to download at the end of this post.

Professionals in the food and beverage industry know well how technology can improve inefficiencies and offer eco-friendly solutions for food production. Yet, many consumers don’t fully understand the role technology plays in producing sustainable food. Addressing this education gap starts with sharing the benefits that technology has in our industry.

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.

Food and beverage companies are finding new and creative ways to reduce waste. Some are doing this in response to the sustainable eating trend, others to make a positive environmental impact, or a combination of both. No matter the reasoning, using food byproducts as raw materials is one way to reduce waste. Coproducts, like whey proteins derived from milk, can be used in a variety of applications for added benefits.