Idaho surpassed New York State as the nation’s third largest milk producer after California and Wisconsin, generating 13.9 billion pounds of milk in 2014, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s latest report. Idaho’s total dairy revenue in 2014 was up 12.5% over 2013 due to investments from companies including Chobani, Glanbia Foods and numerous other dairy processors.
“Over 72% of our state’s dairy production comes from Southern Idaho, supporting a growing dairy, cheese and dairy-related food sector,” says Jan Rogers, executive director, Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization (SIEDO). “Our dairy producers and processors are committed to quality and growth, generating more economic opportunities for the region.”
The Southern Idaho region, known as America’s Most Diverse Food Basket, is home to Chobani’s $450 million yogurt plant, Glanbia’s $15 million headquarters and Cheese Innovation Center, Davisco, Darigold, Idaho Milk Products, High Desert Milk, Gossner Foods and other processors.
“Dairy production from 2014 demonstrate Idaho’s strong dairy industry and the increased milk production has helped meet the growing demand for Idaho’s high quality milk,” said Bob Naerebout, executive director of the Idaho Dairymen’s Association. “We earned this #3 ranking even with fewer cows than New York, a testament to the greater efficiencies of our dairy farmers,” he said.
In 2014, cheese was the #1 dairy export in Idaho, with total dairy generating over $394 million in revenue.
Source: Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization
