Originally called National Milk Month, National Dairy Month began in 1937 to promote the distribution of extra milk during the summer months when cows were sent out to graze.

With U.S. dairy farms producing approximately 21 billion gallons of milk annually, it's no surprise that nearly 99% of American households purchase milk! Dairy has no doubt become a staple in our daily lives. Yogurts, cheeses and ice creams are often found in on-the-go containers, making consumption easier than ever.

For years, NEL's analytical microbiology departments have been assisting dairy farms and manufacturers to ensure all products meet safety guidelines through our water and food testing services. Customers such as Casco Bay Creamery* and H.P. Hood* who pride themselves on finished products being every bit as safe as it is tasty. But did you know we take it one step further?

For nearly a decade, Northeast Lab's media manufacturing department has been supporting dairy farms through ongoing projects and research efforts conducted by some of the nation's leading animal health organizations.

Using NEL's TSA, MacConkey, and Edwards agar plates regularly, Cornell's Animal Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) has been monitoring dairy cows for mastitis to improve and reduce the use of antibiotics in dairy animals.

Testing approximately 230,000 milk samples each year, the AHDC's Quality Milk Production Services (QMPS) program identifies the pathogens that are causing mastitis and make management recommendations based on culture results.

Dr. Michael Zurakowski, Senior Extension Veterinarian with QMPS explained, "We work with farms and veterinary clinics across the U.S. and Canada to teach mastitis pathogen culturing techniques with the intent to provide mastitis data for dairy animals to better target and reduce antibiotic use." This careful screening program equates to about 60-70% reduction in antibiotic use.

"There are so many groups working hard to create positive change and improve food production, and companies like NEL are a vital link between animal health and human health through diagnostics."

So whether you prefer cheese with crackers, yogurt with granola, a delicious ice cream cone or maybe just a cold glass of milk with some cookies, enjoy your favorite dairy products in the month of June, knowing that all efforts are being made to ensure only the highest quality products are readily available at your local grocer.

*Casco Bay Creamery

*H.P. Hood