The Dairy Alliance, a nonprofit organization funded by dairy farm families across eight Southeastern states, is participating in National Nutrition Month this March by promoting the nutritional benefits of dairy foods. The annual campaign, created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, encourages informed food choices and healthy eating habits with this year's theme focusing on discovering the power of nutrition.
According to Farrah Newberry, Chief Executive Officer at The Dairy Alliance, daily food and beverage choices can fuel our days in meaningful ways. The organization's nutrition team provides free resources, tools, and recipes through their website to help families explore dairy benefits and build nourishing habits. These resources are available at https://thedairyalliance.com.
The Dairy Alliance maintains a robust online library of dairy recipes, meal inspiration, and nutrition toolkits while also connecting directly with communities through hands-on events. Team members, including Registered Dietitians, attend health fairs, food festivals, athletic competitions, and other community gatherings to share practical tips for incorporating dairy into meals and snacks.
Sarah Hester, a Registered Dietitian for The Dairy Alliance, notes that dairy foods deliver a powerful combination of flavor, versatility, and nutrition that supports wellness at every age and stage of life. Dairy foods such as milk, cheese, and yogurt offer essential nutrients including high-quality protein, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamins A, B12, and riboflavin. These nutrients collectively support bone health, muscle function, and overall wellness from childhood through older adulthood.
For individuals with lactose intolerance, The Dairy Alliance emphasizes that many grocery stores now offer lactose-free versions of dairy favorites including milk, yogurt, and cream cheese. Many cheeses remain naturally low in lactose, and lactose-free real dairy milk provides the same 13 essential nutrients as regular milk, including high-quality protein along with bone-building calcium and vitamin D.
The organization's efforts center in eight states: Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. By promoting dairy foods and knowledge about the dairy industry, The Dairy Alliance works with dairy farmers, schools, sports teams, health professionals, local organizations, state leaders, and the media to raise awareness about dairy's nutritional benefits.
This initiative comes at a time when many consumers are seeking reliable nutritional information to support healthier lifestyles. The Dairy Alliance's focus on providing science-based resources about dairy nutrition helps address common misconceptions while offering practical solutions for incorporating nutrient-dense foods into daily diets. The organization's community outreach and educational materials serve as valuable tools for families looking to make informed dietary decisions that support long-term health and wellness.
