National Dairy Month started out as National Milk Month in 1937 as a way to promote drinking milk. It was initially created to stabilize the dairy demand when production was at a surplus, but has now developed into an annual tradition that celebrates the contributions the dairy industry has made to the world After the National Dairy Council stepped in to promote the cause, the name soon changed to “Dairy Month.”

Milk cow #41 at the Schaal’s farm in Gillett, Wisc., enjoys grazing after she had just been milked by her owners on Monday, August 30, 2010. The cows that live on this farm never seem to be in shortage of food being able to roam on about 1,500 acres. (Photo by: Meagan Reidinger/Brooks Institute © 2010)

National Dairy Month is a great way to start the summer with nutrient-rich dairy foods. From calcium to potassium, dairy products like milk contain nine essential nutrients which may help to better manage your weight, reduce your risk for high blood pressure, osteoporosis and certain cancers. Whether it’s protein to help build and repair the muscle tissue of active bodies or vitamin A to help maintain healthy skin, dairy products are a natural nutrient powerhouse. Those are just a few of the reasons that you should celebrate dairy not just in June, but all year long.

More information at: http://www.idfa.org/