Barbara Harfmann

It wasn’t long ago when consumers seeking lactose-free dairy products had limited options. Today, these offerings are abundant, with more than 98% of retail outlets providing lactose-free dairy milk. 

From plant-based almond milks to oat and soy — the Top 3 segments in the category — global sales of dairy alternatives were valued at $32.7 billion in 2024 and are expected to reach $66.9 billion in 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.7%, states Grand View Research.

On June 5, Dairy Foods had the opportunity to enjoy plenty of ice cream and tour Tillamook County Creamery Association’s (TCAA) first ice cream plant outside of its sprawling headquarters in Tillamook, Ore. 

Welcome to the Dairy Top 100, Dairy Foods’ industry-leading list of the Top 100 dairy companies/dairy processors in North America.

Welcome to the Dairy Top 100, Dairy Foods’ industry-leading list of the Top 100 dairy companies/dairy processors in the United States.

From Hilmar’s celebration of a new cheese and whey processing plant in Dodge City, Kan., to Danone’s $65 million investment to ramp up production of its International Delight creamers and STōK Cold Brew Coffee, dairy plants are investing in the future of dairy with an everlasting focus on quality, sustainability, and partnership.

Dairy Foods loves touring dairy plants. In the case of Neenah, Wis.-based Galloway Company, we go “Inside the Plant” to learn more about their $70 million, 41,000-square-foot expansion and the star of the show, its new fully automated, multi-effect evaporator.  

Clean label is a broad concept without a clear definition, but holistically, it’s about simplicity, clarity, and transparency. In fact, some ingredient suppliers only offer organic, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced ingredients.

Two-thirds of U.S. shoppers said they have consumed milk in the past month. Additionally, when looking for a good source of protein, 32% of U.S. shoppers said they look for packaged foods that contain dairy, according to a 2025 report from St. Louis-based Nextin Research by MarketPlace.

Everyone loves ice cream, and today's manufacturers are creating a vast array of flavors, textures and formats.