Goat Milk

The Dairy Innovation Hub is set to host its sixth annual Dairy Summit conference on November 18 at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES). The event will highlight over 260 research projects pivotal to the $52.8 billion Wisconsin dairy industry. The summit is designed for a wide audience and aims to showcase the Hub’s extensive research initiatives, which are bolstered by a $7.8 million annual state investment.

A key feature will be the inaugural student impact panel, highlighting the Hub’s focus on workforce development. The panel, involving students from UW–Madison, UW–River Falls, and UW–Platteville, will demonstrate the Hub’s role in providing essential research grants and networking opportunities. Among the highlighted projects, Mitchell Armstrong is studying membrane filtration technologies for dairy byproducts, while Mackenzie Krajco explores biochar covers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from manure. Another initiative by Kylie Beilke revolves around milk quality research tackling mastitis and immune function in dairy cattle.

The summit will include guided tours of key facilities at UW–River Falls, such as the Dairy Pilot Plant and the Humane Handling Institute, offering attendees insights into cutting-edge research environments. Dean Mike Orth of CAFES voiced optimism about showcasing these facilities, particularly the modern Dairy Pilot Plant.

Since its inception, the Dairy Innovation Hub has funded more than 260 projects across its campuses, reinforcing Wisconsin’s stature as a leader in dairy. The summit is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is required.

DAIRY SUMMIT AGENDA – Nov. 18, Riverview Ballroom, University Center, UW–River Falls

• 9 a.m. – Registration, posters, and continental breakfast
• 9:45 a.m. – Welcome comments, UW–River Falls interim chancellor John Chenoweth
• 10 a.m. – Student impact panel
• 10:45 a.m. – Break, refreshments, and poster viewing
• 11:15 a.m. – Hub-funded research introductions
• 12:15 p.m. – Lunch
• 1 p.m. – Poster session
• 2-4:30 p.m. – Tours (participants will be split into smaller groups and rotate between three tour stops.)
• 4:30 p.m. – Adjourn

The modest yet significant rise occurred in a volatile market, where only 11-12% of the global production is traded internationally.

The global milk production increased by 0.95% until July 2025, driven by high international demand and reaching record prices, although moderation is anticipated for 2026.

Traditional exporters like the European Union, the USA, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil collectively increased their production by approximately 0.7%, amidst an international demand rebound particularly in China and Southeast Asia.

Enhanced producer margins, favorable weather conditions, health recovery in Europe, and stable feed costs have bolstered supply. However, a moderate expansion projected for 2026 (? +0.44%) indicates existing risks in the boom. In major regions like the USA, production rose 3.4% year-on-year in July, leading the growth, while the EU’s increase is marked by regional disparities and climatic or health challenges. Oceania expects a strong peak in New Zealand, while Australia faces constraints. Despite international milk and dairy prices hitting record highs, potential tensions may arise if demand falters. Risks such as climatic events, health outbreaks, and oversupply at certain times could generate volatility for producers.

A New ‘Get Real’ campaign celebrates real milk consumers, highlighting their everyday interactions with this essential product. Departing from past celebrity-focused campaigns, the current iteration showcases a diverse array of Californians — families, athletes, artists, and workers — enjoying milk in their daily routines. The initiative aims to communicate milk’s nutritious value and its cultural significance in the Californian lifestyle, countering the growing competition from plant-based beverages.

The California Milk Processor Board introduced the iconic “Got Milk” campaign in 1993 as a response to flagging milk consumption in the state, then licensed it to the Milk Processor Education Program in 1995 for national use.

The relaunch is a strategic response to these challenges, emphasizing milk’s superior nutritional profile, including high-quality proteins, calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients. By harnessing digital platforms and social media, the campaign invites consumers to participate by sharing personal milk stories using the hashtag #GotMilk, fostering a sense of community around the brand.

This campaign is more than just advertising; it is a potent marketing tool aimed at educating consumers and redefining the milk industry’s place in modern society. The effective use of communication is vital, not just in production but also in dispelling myths and reinforcing the real value of milk.