Strong global demand for U.S. Dairy’s diverse portfolio of delicious, nutritious and sustainably produced products helped drive exports to new records in 2021, both in terms of volume and value. U.S. dairy export volume last year increased 10% over 2020 to more than 2.3 million metric tons (MT) milk solid equivalent. Value rose 18% to US$7.75 billion. Export volume in 2021 was equivalent to more than 17% of U.S. milk produced last year, also an all-time high.

While the recent Earth Day celebration brings the health and wellbeing of our planet top of mind, today and every day, the U.S. dairy community is dedicated to feeding the world in a planet-friendly manner. Throughout the supply chain, from farmers to processors, U.S. Dairy is embracing practices that care for the environment and support sustainable food formulations.

To feature some of the many efforts our suppliers take to deliver the value in milk to global customers, the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) has unveiled the first video in a new series: U.S. Dairy: Sustainability at the Heart of Global Ingredient Solutions.

As the world navigates unprecedented times, focusing on what matters most is paramount for collective healing—protecting the health and well-being of people and communities alongside careful stewardship of our natural resources.

This year marks the 50^th anniversary of the first Earth Day celebration, which also charts a history of increasing interest in the entire food supply chain, from who grows our food, where it comes from and how it’s made. Thanks to U.S. dairy farmers’ legacy of relentless dedication to careful management and continuous adoption of innovative practices, they’ve proven emblematic of the sustainability initiatives and environmental mindfulness celebrated on this occasion.

Dear valued customers and partners,

Our primary wish to you is a sincere hope that you and your colleagues, family and friends are all in good health and staying well as the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) is increasingly felt across all corners of the globe. During these unprecedented times our objective is to maintain clear and open lines of communication. As cases of the COVID-19 continue to spread in the United States and other nations, we are keenly aware of the uncertainty and disruptions you may be facing given the dynamic nature of this global pandemic.