Pennsylvania dairy: it’s goodness that matters for good nutrition, better health, stronger farm families, and a strong economy. The commonwealth’s dairy industry fuels all of this by providing an abundant supply of fresh, wholesome milk that’s rich in the nine essential nutrients for good health and by supporting our state’s economy to the tune of $14.7 billion annually and over 52,000 jobs.

Goodness That Matters: For Nutrition & Health

Fluid milk is a nutrient powerhouse that contains the nine essential nutrients to good nutrition.

  • Calcium: Helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth. It helps reduce the risk of stress fractures and osteoporosis later in life. Plays a role in promoting normal blood pressure.
  • Vitamin D: Helps absorb calcium for healthy bones.
  • Phosphorus: Works with calcium and vitamin D to help keep bones strong.
  • Riboflavin: Helps convert food into energy. Plays a vital role in the development of the central nervous system.
  • Protein: Helps build and maintain lean muscle. Contains all the essential amino acids (the building blocks for protein).
  • Vitamin B-12: Helps build red blood cells and helps maintain the central nervous system.
  • Potassium: helps regulate the balance of fluids in the body and plays a role in maintaining a normal blood pressure.
  • Vitamin A: Important for good vision, healthy skin, and a healthy immune system.
  • Niacin: Helps the body’s enzymes function normally by converting nutrients into energy.

Research shows that regardless of fat content, dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt are associated with improved bone health, especially in children and teens, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and lower blood pressure in adults.

Goodness That Matters: For a Stronger Pennsylvania

Thanks to the hard work of Pennsylvania’s 6,500 dairy farm families, local milk is available year-round. Pennsylvania milk is available locally and globally and is made into butter, ice cream, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products or ingredients that are used in products like chocolate, snack foods and baked goods. Dairy farmers in the state are stewards of the land and natural resources, they take good care of their cows, provide jobs and economic revenue.