One startup will receive a $1 million grand prize.

While protein consumption in the United States generally meets the minimum requirements, emerging research indicates a higher-protein diet — while staying within the range of 10% to 35% of total calories (the amount for weight management) — may have benefits for certain populations.

Milk is the genetic blueprint for foods to support health, according to Bruce German, director of the Foods for Health Institute at University of California, Davis. From the moment of conception, a mother’s nutritious diet, including dairy products, promotes health and vitality.

 In January, Sargento Foods, Plymouth, Wis., named Mike McEvoy Executive Vice President-Operations. The manufacturing, engineering, quality systems, procurement, logistics and distribution services functions will report to him. Most recently he was president of Sargento’s Food Ingredients division. McEvoy succeeds Mark William Rhyan, who passed away on Dec. 25.

Protein is under-represented in the American diet, yet consumers want protein-rich foods and beverages. New developments from protein ingredient suppliers are driving product innovations.

Our annual report card grades the various categories of dairy foods and beverages. None fail, but clearly, product developers need to bone up on chemistry to develop exciting new products. Remedial work in marketing principles will help convey dairy’s nutritional benefits.