As a global leader in sustainability and social responsibility, the U.S. dairy community has had a long-standing commitment to healthy people, a healthy planet and healthy communities. This commitment is furthered each and every day through innovative practices, unique capabilities and providing versatile, nutritious products. Earth Day marks a special occasion to honor U.S. Dairy’s contributions to sustainable food systems.

U.S. Dairy is positioned to help food and beverage manufacturers worldwide capitalize on the growing demand for more nutritious and delicious products made from socially, environmentally and economically responsible sources. 

International whey processors, researchers, and product developers united with leading nutrition, food, and beverage subject matter experts at the 2022 International Whey Conference (IWC). Held in Chicago from September 11-14, discussions were focused on the bright and innovative future of whey.

From new scientific research and market developments likely to impact the future state of the whey industry, to growing global opportunities for whey ingredient applications, the biennial conference was abuzz with information, trends, and ideas. Many presentations put a spotlight on dairy’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its progress towards greenhouse gas neutrality. Researchers shared how the science on whey ingredient health benefits has expanded beyond protein and muscle health to include lipids, carbohydrates, and metabolic health. Innovative technologies were introduced that further advance the processing and functionality of whey for product development.

The number and range of products powered with dairy protein ingredients continue to climb globally, providing ample opportunities for manufacturers to deliver the health and nutritional benefits of dairy to consumers in new, exciting and delicious ways. An analysis of tracking data from Innova Market Insights confirms this upward growth trajectory by revealing that global food and beverage product introductions made with whey proteins and with milk proteins set new records in 2020.

Dairy products and ingredients—such as U.S. whey and milk proteins—are a delicious way to enjoy the wonderful nutrition naturally found in cow’s milk.

While protein is naturally found in a variety of animal and plant foods, there is a wide variance in protein quality. U.S. dairy proteins stand out as a high quality, complete source of protein containing all the essential amino acids. Whey protein is also the leading source of the amino acid leucine, which is important for healthy aging by playing a central role in stimulating muscle protein synthesis.

Dairy proteins’ unique ability to help improve body composition during weight loss, increase muscle mass when combined with resistance training and aid in muscle recovery after endurance exercise is well-established. People often envision these as being reserved for young, competitive athletes, but new research has shown dairy proteins have great benefits for women—without adding the bulk—as well as older individuals.