6/9/2021
New Data Shows Milk Has More Nutrition Benefits
Real dairy milk can now claim four more essential nutrients, taking the total essential nutrients to 13, contributing to health and wellness in every serving.
MADISON, Wis. – Milk has always been delicious and nutritious. But now there’s even more good news to share about real dairy milk.
New information based on updated USDA databases shows milk packs 13 essential nutrients in every serving, including zinc, selenium, iodine and potassium, plus nine more vitamins and minerals contributing to health, immune function and strong bones and muscles.
"Milk has always played a critical role in health and wellness as a powerhouse beverage, but new information shows milk provides more benefits than we ever knew," says Karen Doster, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin director of youth and school programs.
This is great information for consumers looking to eat a healthy diet and is an added bonus for everyone who enjoys milk. It's also important for dairy farmers to share with consumers while discussing the many benefits of milk and dairy products as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Dairy farmers continue to produce the same wholesome product they always have, this new information simply means there’s even more wellness in every serving of milk than previously understood. Milk is still milk and provides the balanced nutrition a body needs.
Dairy wellness
The new data offers additional proof dairy milk has a natural nutrient content level few other single foods or beverages can compete with.
"Milk delivers multiple benefits through a mighty combination of natural nutrients aiding in muscle repair, rehydration and replenishment, while also helping to build strong bones and support immune health," says Doster. "And it does so without the added sugars, colors and flavors which may be found in other beverages."
Better than the rest
Milk packs a powerful punch in every serving. Milk’s unique, natural nutrient package includes:
- A natural source of high-quality protein to build, repair and maintain lean muscle
- Vitamin A, zinc and selenium to support a healthy immune system
- Four B vitamins – riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5) and vitamin B12 to help convert food into energy
- Calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus and protein to build and maintain strong bones and reduce the risk for stress fractures.
- Iodine to help regulate metabolism and is linked to cognitive function.
- Potassium to help maintain normal muscle function and regulate the balance of fluids in the body
Thanks to its healthy goodness and the dedication of dairy farm families, milk is an accessible, affordable way to include essential nutrients in human diets, including many which are critically needed and often under-consumed.
To learn more about how dairy fits in a nutritious diet, visit usdairy.com/dairy-nutrition. To learn more about Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin visit wisconsindairy.org.
Photo caption:
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About Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin:
Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin exists to be a tireless advocate, marketer, and promoter for Wisconsin dairy farmers and to drive demand for Wisconsin's dairy products. The organization represents Wisconsin farm families and works to increase the sale and consumption of Wisconsin milk and dairy products, as well as build trust in dairy farmers and the industry. Organizational initiatives include generating national publicity, managing digital advertising, and driving sales, distribution and trial through retail and foodservice promotions. Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin also supports in-school education about the benefits of dairy and funding for the Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. For more information, visit our website at WisconsinDairy.org.