Chris Cifelli Ph.D.

Chris Cifelli, Ph.D., is senior vice president of Nutrition Research at the National Dairy Council. He oversees the Dairy and Public Health research platform, the goal of which is to provide scientific evidence that can be used to protect and promote dairy in public policy. As a nutrition scientist and health expert, he is passionate about the science of food.

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Dairy & Nutrition

It is fermented dairy foods’ time to shine

Dairy is in a sweet spot as scientist and health-conscious consumers are increasingly focused on gut health.

Chris Cifelli Ph.D.

December 12, 2025

Fermented dairy foods are having a moment, not because they’re trendy, but because the science behind them keeps getting stronger.

Fermented dairy foods work their magic on digestive health

It’s important to strike a balance between “good” and ”bad” bacteria in the gut.

Chris Cifelli Ph.D.

March 20, 2024

Checkoff-led consumer research indicates that people believe the digestive system and microbiome are important not just for gut health but also for immunity, and mental and metabolic health.

The dairy industry has come a long way with-lactose-free products

There is an opportunity for dairy companies to continue sharing the progress we have made in the lactose-free dairy category and also to expand our story beyond milk.

Chris Cifelli Ph.D.

December 20, 2023

It wasn’t long ago when consumers seeking lactose-free dairy products had limited options.

Dairy vital for pregnant women and child’s development

Milk, cheese and yogurt products crucial for brain and bone development, research finds.

Chris Cifelli Ph.D.

September 26, 2023

There is no more critical time than the first 1,000 days of a child’s life to set a strong foundation for their overall cognition and brain development.

Supporting immune health with dairy ingredients

Dairy nutrients work to ward off sickness

Chris Cifelli Ph.D.

December 29, 2022

Dairy nutrients work to ward off sickness, writes Chris Cifelli, Ph.D., of the National Dairy Council. Yet, roughly two of every 10 Americans are falling short of consuming the recommended three daily servings of dairy and five daily servings of fruits and vegetables.