The results are in – Americans set a record for dairy consumption in 2023 with per capita consumption coming in at 661 lbs. per person, up 7 lbs. over the previous year and matching the record set in 2021. According to the International Dairy Foods Association, this growth was mainly driven by a surging demand for more butter and cheese.
Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association in Washington, D.C., gave comments on the rise in consumption. “Dairy is one of the most nutritionally complete foods available,” Dykes said. “Milk, cheese, yogurt, whey-protein-infused fitness beverages, and many other dairy foods contain up to 13 essential nutrients, making dairy one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. For flavor, affordability, and nutrition, people of all ages are choosing dairy more than ever.”
Dairy Consumption
As consumers seek foods rich in both flavor and nutrition, dairy has experienced a consistent rise in demand. USDA data highlights this upward trend, showing that Americans’ per capita dairy consumption has grown by 3% over the past five years, 9% in the last 15 years, and an impressive 16% over the past 30 years.
Cheese Consumption
In 2023, Americans indulged in more cheese than ever, with per capita consumption soaring to 42.3 pounds per person. Cottage cheese also made a comeback, climbing to 2.1 pounds per person—the highest level since 2019.
Butter Consumption
Everything is better with butter – or at least that was the theme in 2023. Butter consumption reached a new all-time high of 6.5 pounds per person, enough to cover approximately 109 bags of popcorn!
Yogurt Consumption
Yogurt also saw some impressive growth, with consumption increasing from 13.5 pounds per person to 13.8 pounds in 2023, a 2% increase. In the past 20 years, yogurt consumption has grown 60%.
Ice Cream Consumption
Americans didn’t scream for as much ice cream in 2023, with consumption dropping to just under 18 lbs. per person. However, early results for 2024 sales are predicted to show some growth.
