Seventy percent of U.S. adults say the dairy aisle is essential on every grocery trip, according to an Atomik study for the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Assocation (NFRA).

The study reveals that the majority of U.S. consumers claim they always stop at the dairy aisle to buy products they will eat later, whether it be dairy-based favorites, non-dairy products, or even plant-based dairy alternatives. Moreover, 88% of U.S. consumers say they are likely to find options that fit their lifestyle in the dairy aisle.

"As consumer trends and preferences shift over time, the dairy aisle continues to innovate and remains a constant in U.S. consumers' shopping trips," said Tricia Greyshock, EVP/COO at National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association. "Nearly 3 in 5 U.S. consumers (56%) report that products from the dairy aisle take up half or more than half of the space in their refrigerator."

U.S. consumers are buying more from the dairy aisle than just dairy- and plant-based products. Non-dairy products that can be purchased in the dairy aisle such as orange juice, coffee creamer, iced coffee and tea, and rolls and croissants are very popular with consumers today and have become breakfast staples across the country, according to the study.

Snacks are also a very popular choice for consumers shopping in the dairy aisle, and the survey showcases that most consumers find exactly what they need to snack on. For families with children, almost two-thirds of parents (63%) find their favorite snacks in the dairy aisle.

In honor of National Dairy Month, NFRA is partnering with Jamie Gwen, (pictured) chef and TV personality, to share convenient, chef-inspired mealtime ideas straight out of the beloved dairy aisle.

"The versatility and variety offered in the dairy aisle makes it a great place for consumers to get creative and try out new products and ingredients," said Gwen. "From breakfast favorites to rich and creamy meals, from plant-based products to grab-and-go snacks, families can rely on the dairy aisle to have what they need to get them through the week."

Photo courtesy of NFRA.