Recognizing our Supporters This Dairy Month
Idaho produces about 15 billion pounds of milk each year – that’s #3 for milk production in the country! That is one of many reasons why Dairy Month is celebrated in Idaho. For some food banks across country, it can be a challenge to obtain dairy products. In true Idaho fashion, the organizations, businesses, and families that are part of our dairy industry are incredibly generous. Their support helps us make more healthy, balanced food choices available to those in need.
At The Idaho Foodbank, we categorize the food we distribute to ensure we are providing nutritious items such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy. Milk provides 13 essential nutrients and is one of the most affordable nutrient-rich food sources. In fiscal year 2025, 12% of the food we distributed was dairy. We appreciate the ongoing support of all of our dairy partners and producers, including Dairy West, Darigold, Chobani, Meadow Gold, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and Danone.
Storage capability, particularly refrigeration and freezers, is one of the challenges in providing fresh or perishable food items to our neighbors facing food insecurity. Dairy West has donated refrigerators directly to many of our food distribution partners, enabling them to store dairy, meat, and other perishable food items. This is important to make that food more readily available to neighbors in their community who are food insecure.
When we start thinking of ice cream during these summer months, remember to celebrate all things dairy and their support of the community during June!