ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. consumers are increasingly favoring higher-protein dairy products even as inflation and tighter household budgets pressure spending in other parts of the dairy case.
The National Milk Producers Federation Dairy Market Report says Greek yogurt sales have increased 15% year to date, while Icelandic yogurt volumes are up 25%. Cottage cheese sales have climbed 12%.
Higher-protein milk products are also gaining ground. Enhanced-protein milk sales have increased 10% this year, while flavored whole milk sales rose 16% in August compared with a year earlier.
The gains contrast with weaker cheese demand. Retail cheese sales declined 0.3% over the summer, with shredded and sliced varieties losing volume as consumers shifted toward less expensive formats and private-label products.
The report says consumers continue treating dairy as a staple but are becoming more selective. Protein content, value and convenience are increasingly influencing purchasing decisions as food and energy costs remain elevated.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong demand for protein-focused dairy products is creating growth opportunities even as consumers reduce spending in weaker dairy categories.