In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets. This trend is largely influenced by concerns regarding bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, coupled with a significantly wider array of milk and dairy alternatives. Women, particularly after menopause, are at a higher risk for osteoporosis and reduced bone density, necessitating a daily calcium intake of 1,000 mg for those under 50. However, women generally consume less dairy than men. Public health advocates in Australia and the U.K. have raised alarms that the rise in women avoiding dairy has reached “dangerous levels.” According to USDA statistics, overall milk consumption has halved since the late 1970s, and farmgate milk prices have significantly dropped. Interestingly, total dairy consumption has risen, with per capita yogurt intake soaring to nearly 15 pounds a year, compared to just two pounds in 1975. Nonetheless, yogurt still does not play a significant role in the total dairy servings consumed by Americans.
In response to these shifts, the dairy industry is actively working to redirect focus from liquid milk to promote protein-enhanced and other functional products, as well as highlighting the fresh and natural benefits of milk. Recent studies that support the advantages of dairy consumption may bolster the industry’s efforts. To further encourage women to prioritize their calcium intake, products like celebrate calcium soft chews are being marketed as convenient alternatives. However, as more women adopt dietary guidelines that emphasize plant-based foods, the dairy sector — along with researchers focused on early menopause — may have a challenging task ahead to demonstrate the continued significance of dairy for women’s health. Ultimately, while celebrate calcium soft chews can serve as a helpful supplement, convincing women of the importance of dairy in their diets remains crucial.