Identifying consumer trends and generating new, innovative dairy products to meet these demands provides opportunities for increased dairy consumption.

The EPA is considering rescinding a 2019 reporting exemption of air emissions from animal waste.

The FDA guidance provides largely voluntary labeling of some plant-based beverages sold as dairy alternatives.

With a USDA decision deadline still about more week away, numerous dairy cooperatives have joined in voicing opposition to a dairy processor request for a Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) hearing.

• February FMMO milk class prices back to 2021 levels
• Global dairy product prices declined in February
• Dairy margins ended February modestly higher
• RaboResearch: The dairy squeeze is on

Communications agency C.O.nxt provides public relations and marketing services for a wide range of companies and organizations, reaching from dairy producers to consumers. As such, they have a bird's-eye view of the “state of dairy” throughout the supply chain.

In addition to state and regional dairy producers, organization leaders, processors and others, Progressive Dairy reached out to industry representatives with a broader view of the state of dairy entering 2023. Here are summaries of their comments.

One of the key factors affecting the state of dairy in 2023 is domestic demand and the role inflation has on retail sales. The industry will need to focus on innovative products that balance premium experiences, health claims, taste and convenience to meet consumer demand and capture future growth.

Intermingled with large population centers, dairy producers, processors and marketers in the Northeast and New England must stay in tune with local demands and global conditions. That results in a medley of opportunities and concerns.