Prairie Farms Dairy, a regional cooperative based in Edwardsville, is set to launch a new line of lactose-free milks and dairy products next month in an effort to diversify its offerings and support small dairy farmers. CEO Matt McClelland revealed that the company has been losing about 40 members a year as small farms struggle to stay afloat due to rising operating costs.
The new lactose-free line will include a variety of products such as whole milk, chocolate milk, sour cream, and cottage cheese. McClelland emphasized that the lactose-free products will taste the same as their original counterparts, thanks to the use of a natural enzyme to break down the lactose in milk.
The decision to introduce lactose-free products comes as Prairie Farms aims to tap into new markets and attract customers who may have previously turned to plant-based alternatives. McClelland expressed optimism about the future of dairy products, citing a projected growth in the dairy food industry to over $1.3 trillion by 2030.
For small dairy farmers like Frank Doll, who runs a family dairy farm in Pocahontas, Illinois, the introduction of new products like lactose-free milk offers a glimmer of hope. Doll, who milks about 225 cows daily, highlighted the importance of diversifying income streams to stay profitable in the dairy business.
Overall, Prairie Farms’ foray into lactose-free products signals a shift in the dairy industry towards meeting the evolving needs of consumers while supporting the livelihoods of small dairy farmers. The launch of the new line is expected to not only expand the brand’s customer base but also create new opportunities for dairy farmers to thrive in a competitive market.
