All About Milk

Some of the highest-quality milk in the world is made right here in Washington. It’s been a key ingredient in the foods that have nourished us since the first cows arrived in 1838.

Milk

Cow’s milk is valued as a food resource because it contains many of the nutrients that are essential to the growth, maintenance and health of the human body.  Its versatility allows it to be consumed in many ways that are pleasing to human tastes.

Cheese

Cheese is a concentrated dairy food made from milk. Cheese is defined as the fresh or matured product obtained by draining the whey (moisture or serum of original milk) after coagulation of casein, the major milk protein. Casein is coagulated by acid, which is produced through the addition of select microorganisms and/or by coagulating enzymes, resulting in curd formation.

Yogurt

Yogurt and other cultured dairy products are made by adding specific cultures to fluid dairy products in order to convert some lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid. The aroma, body and flavor of these products can vary, depending on the type of culture and milk, amount of milkfat and non-fat milk solids, fermentation process and temperature used.

Product Safety

Extensive studies have confirmed that milk from animals treated with rbST is the same wholesome product that we have enjoyed for generations.

Prices

Many people are not aware that the price dairy farmers receive for their milk is effectively set by the U.S. government.

Recipes

The best recipes start with milk. Five delicious recipes featuring dairy, right at your fingertips.