June National Dairy Month Moo-ves into July Ice Cream Month | Arts & Culture

June is National Dairy Month, but that doesn’t end the celebration of all things dairy. Eating ice cream and frozen yogurt is a great way to celebrate National Dairy Month and transition into National Ice Cream Month in July during hot summer days. 

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The National Dairy Month celebration actually began in 1937 as National Milk Month, a way to encourage Americans to include milk as part of their daily diet.  A few years later, the event was renamed National Dairy Month, incorporating other dairy products into the celebration.

When it comes to dairy products, our country has a rich history.  Cheese has been a part of American diets since the Pilgrims first landed and some historians trace its origins back 4,000 years.  The versatility of dairy products makes it easy to participate in this month-long celebration. The National Dairy Council has some great recipes for dairy-based foods.

Countless studies have demonstrated the positive impact milk plays in children’s development.  But drinking milk also provides important protein for adults to help rebuild their muscles after a workout, reduces the risk of bone disease and fractures, and may help reduce the risk of getting cavities.

As the end of the June approaches, we are glad to announce that the dairy celebration will continue during National Ice Cream Month in July.  We encourage you to visit the International Dairy Foods Association site for more information on this celebration and its history at http://www.idfa.org/.