The USDEC booth was buzzing with activity throughout the three-day event. From customers to media members to food science professionals, IFT was the home to many valuable interactions with personnel throughout the foodservice and food and beverage industries.

This year's booth pooled the resources and expertise from a broad array of dairy checkoff supported groups including the Dairy Research Centers of Wisconsin, CalPoly and South Dakota State to Midwest Dairy Association, National Dairy Council and USDEC staff. This year's show emphasized snacking and mini meals with prototypes that focused on the following trends:

• Quality, quantity and timing of dairy proteins
• Weight wellness
• Global inspiration

Positioning U.S. dairy within the context of these international trends showcased how it can help meet ever-evolving customer demands. The show informed foodservice operators and food and beverage manufacturers of the flavor, natural functionality, nutrition and value provided by the variety U.S. dairy ingredients.

The U.S. dairy story also was reinforced by communicating our three pillars of strength: security, partnership and growth. These topics were routinely interwoven through the many conversations had on the tradeshow floor and presentations shared during the educational portion of the event. Visit our IFT resources page to learn more about the prototypes and insights shared and be on the lookout for USDEC next year when IFT returns to Chicago.