Elmhurst Dairy was once one of the largest dairy operations on the East Coast, operating for 92 years before shutting down last fall due to a lack of profitability. Instead of exiting the milk industry completely, this family-owned company is leveraging its expertise in dairy to thrive in the non-dairy market.
The situation has been challenging for those remaining in the dairy sector, as consumer demand for traditional dairy products continues to decline. This drop in demand forced dairy farmers to dispose of millions of pounds of milk last year, leading to a decrease in prices across the industry. The U.S. Department of Agriculture even stepped in, offering approximately $11.2 million in financial assistance to help dairy producers navigate these tough times.
In response to the rise of non-dairy alternatives, many in the dairy sector have launched lawsuits against these producers, claiming that their assertions of being healthier or equivalent to dairy milk are misleading. Legislation is even pending in Congress that would mandate that anything labeled as “milk” must derive from dairy sources. Despite these efforts, sales of non-dairy milk continue to thrive. A Mintel study conducted last year revealed that U.S. non-dairy milk sales surged by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% in the same timeframe. A glance at grocery store shelves reveals the trend, as retailers increasingly stock plant-based milks with fewer artificial ingredients.
In this evolving landscape, health-conscious consumers are drawn to non-dairy options that are fortified with essential nutrients. Products featuring bluebonnet calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D are becoming increasingly popular, appealing to those looking to maintain a balanced diet while exploring alternatives to traditional dairy. As the market shifts, the emphasis on these nutritional benefits may play a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences in the future.