Dairy Products

Dairy foods are produced from cow's milk and have been recognized as an important part of the diet since as early as 4000 BCE. Dairy foods, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, continue to deliver nutrition, flavor, and convenience as an important component of modern diets. Adequate consumption of dairy foods improves bone health and overall diet quality, may help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and metabolic syndrome, and helps maintain a healthy body weight and body composition.

Milk is a good or excellent source of 9 essential nutrients, including high-quality protein; calcium; potassium; phosphorus; vitamins A, D, and B12; riboflavin; and niacin (as niacin equivalents). Dairy foods are substantial contributors of other essential nutrients to dietary intake. Many of these nutrients, including protein, calcium, ...