he dairy industry across the world is evolving, and so the numerous dairy farmers who look forward to producing high milk and income out of their dairy farms. Lately, it has also been endorsing the implementation of latest technologies, dairy equipment, and milk software to cultivate dairy farming for improved milk yield. The consumer market, on the other hand, is growing contemporarily. The demands of consumers are increasing exponentially in context to the quantity and assortment of dairy products to choose from. It is the perfect time for the milk industry to be innovative and inculcate the latest dairy food trends that are seen to affect the production and consumption of dairy food products in the offing. There are disparate sections amongst the consumers based on their consumption of dairy products and eating habits. Let’s analyze how the new trends take over the dairy industry in the next 5–10 years, in tandem with consumer expectations and demands.
Organic & Sustainable Nutrition
Currently, the word population stands at 7.6 billion. It is foreseen that the number will rise up to 10 billion by 2050. The challenge is, to improve the health and nutritional value of food while leaving minimal impact on the environment. About 2.1 billion of the total population are obese whereas a further 1.5 billion people suffer from malnutrition. Many dairy companies, today, are promoting organic food—a way to feed healthy food to people that has been grown in a natural environment. This leads us toward a better understanding of the sustainable food system formed by inter-relations between environment, agriculture, food, nutrition, and health.
Demand for Natural Food
The new generation is seeking natural food that could satisfy their nutrition requirement and keep them healthy and active. The dairy companies are emphasizing on the study of probiotics and the associated benefits in weight management, heart ailments, degenerative illness, and overall wellbeing.
Call for Transparency
As consumers are becoming more aware today, the same approach reflects in their buying habits. They are concerned and call for access to brand details, product nutritional value, sourcing policies, human rights, and more while buying any product from the manufacturing companies. This helps them be aware of what they’re consuming and what the impact of the same is. Besides, the companies are focusing on deploying technologies like data analytics, sensors, dairy software, and digital technology to utilize data for better decision making. This helps them improve their logistical efficiency, supply chain traceability and risk visibility.
Reduction in Food Wastage
Of the total food produced across the world, nearly, one third is wasted in some of the other manners. Thankfully, the global citizens are becoming aware of this major issue and finding ways to curb the same, both individually and through organizations supporting the agenda. A number of governments across countries are taking this problem to a political level, trying to enforce laws, and committing reductions goals to tackle the challenge. As the land availability decreases gradually, there’s increasing competition amongst the industries dealing with by-products of food and beverage, thus, opening new channels for them to earn revenues. This results in developing a circular economy in the food industry through innovative solutions and policies.
Closing
The discovery of new technologies is expanding the horizons of the dairy industry, creating an innovative approach toward sustainable nutrition. However, if the right strategies and measures are developed and adhered to, they can collectively empower the milk industry.
