Operations

How dairy processors can reduce membrane fouling and improve filtration performance

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Fouling in membrane filtration affects performance, especially for dairy processors focusing on higher solids and efficiency. It impacts flux, cleaning frequency, energy use, and membrane lifespan. To improve performance, it's essential to consider feed composition, operating conditions, system design, cleaning practices, and membrane selection.

The hidden costs of dairy equipment: A TCO framework for smarter purchasing decisions

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis changes the calculation. It shifts equipment evaluation from a price comparison to a business decision — and it starts with understanding how equipment design drives every cost category that follows purchase.

Nominate your plant for Plant of the Year

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:35:00 -0400

Winner to be featured in the September issue of Dairy Foods.

Episode 66 – Five steps dairy processors can take to implement a successful AI strategy

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Jorge Izquierdo, vice president, market development, PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, joins Dairy Foods for Episode 66 of the “Let’s Talk Dairy” podcast. During the podcast, he discusses artificial intelligence (AI).

Preparing water systems for dairy growth in 2026

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

As dairy production grows, water infrastructure can become a hidden constraint. Learn how strategic water management helps processors expand capacity, control costs, and stay ahead of evolving regulations.

IDFA names senior vice president, strategic initiatives and industry relations

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:22:39 -0400

In this role, Heather Soubra will lead IDFA’s NextGen Leadership Program, deepen collaboration with IDFA members and board leaders, and drive execution of the association’s new strategic plan, Vision of the Future 2.0. She will report to Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of IDFA.

Secondary dairy packaging trends: Sustainability, automation and smart machinery

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In order to get a better understanding of the latest trends and innovations in secondary packaging, Dairy Foods hosted a conversation with Peter Fox, CEO of SOMIC Packaging.

Dairy processors turn to membranes for water recovery and energy savings

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Dairy processors are focusing on utility reduction, water recovery, and efficiency due to rising energy costs and sustainability pressures. Membranes are key for lowering thermal demand, recovering water, and enhancing product yield in these operations.

Keep milk moving: How to efficiently streamline dairy distribution

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The dairy industry faces a complex challenge in moving products from farm to fork, with a growing demand for cheese and frozen items amid shifting consumption trends. Efficient distribution and strict safety standards are key to meeting this evolving landscape and ensuring quality delivery.

IFT FIRST Expo to offer discussions on AI, GLP-1s, food safety and more

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The IFT FIRST Annual Event and Expo returns to Chicago from July 12-15, showcasing innovations in food science. This year features scientific programming within the expo hall, Ignite Sessions for professional development, and keynotes addressing pressing industry challenges.

Equipment suppliers provide solutions for cleaning and sanitation

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Dairy Foods highlights solutions for cleaning and sanitation.

Primary Packaging Performs Well

Fri, 22 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Primary packaging ensures the freshness and safety of dairy products. In 2024, U.S. flexible packaging sales reached $42.6 billion, up 2.9% from 2023, with a projected growth to $44.6 billion in 2025.

IDDBA commences search for next CEO

Wed, 20 May 2026 13:46:31 -0400

The incoming president and CEO will be responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership for the nonprofit, which connects retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers.

Global Cold Chain Alliance announces leadership team

Mon, 18 May 2026 14:03:07 -0400

Following bylaw updates that consolidate governance into a single, unified GCCA Board, this leadership class steps in at a moment of significant evolution.

IDFA CEO Dykes to retire at end of 2026

Fri, 15 May 2026 13:01:50 -0400

IDFA’s Executive Council officer group is forming a committee to support the process for selecting the association’s next president and CEO while Dykes continues to serve in his role through the end of 2026 to support a smooth and thoughtful leadership transition.

The many ways to recover protein and minerals from whey

Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Whey, once seen as a byproduct, is now a valuable resource for dairy processors, projected to grow into a $26.24 billion market by 2034. Innovations in membrane filtration and byproduct recovery are driving this shift, enhancing sustainability and protein extraction.

Equipment suppliers provide solutions for fillers and cappers

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Dairy Foods highlights fillers and cappers.

Ever.Ag introduces agentic AI and Ag decision engine

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:56:52 -0400

Everett is arriving first for dairy processing customers, where Ever.Ag has deep roots and a highly established software suite.

Maola Newport News expands plant efficiencies in an evolving dairy landscape

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Maola Local Dairies' Newport News plant processes a variety of dairy products, focusing on sustainability and innovation. With a strong team and advanced HTST technology, they supply milk to schools and retailers across the Southeast, ensuring freshness and quality.

Steps to take in an attempt to prevent a cyberattack

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In 2024, the global average cost of a data breach hit $4.88 million, emphasizing the urgent need for cybersecurity in the dairy industry. With ransomware attacks escalating, dairy processors must adopt robust defenses and collaborate to safeguard against evolving threats.

Heiman re-elected as WCMA president

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:11:50 -0400

Heiman will lead an executive team that also includes Mat Bartkowiak of Nelson-Jameson as first vice president, Mindy Berrey of Land O’Lakes as second vice president, Betsy Erdelyi of BMO as Treasurer, and Chris Roelli of Roelli Cheese returning as secretary.

IDFA names new vice president

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:41:09 -0400

Maggie McClain brings nearly two decades of strategic communications and public affairs experience across the food, agriculture and health sectors, with expertise in media relations, executive positioning, issues management, and translating complex regulatory developments into strategic guidance.

Equipment suppliers provide solutions for cheesemaking equipment

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Dairy Foods highlights cheesemaking equipment.

Why pumps and valves are the “backbone” of dairy processing

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

As dairy sales grow, pumps and valves play a vital role—pumps ensure accurate, controlled product transfer, while valves regulate flow, isolate systems, and support cleaning processes.

How 3-A Standards reduce risk when using AI equipment

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

AI is transforming dairy operations and boosting investor confidence. One cheese manufacturer achieved a 1% to 3% margin improvement—and millions in additional revenue—through AI-driven yield optimization.

Logic highlights new autonomous mobile pallets for the food and beverage industry

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Logic unveiled its newest autonomous, data-driven logistics solutions: the Logic Pallet 36 x 36, which has been engineered specifically for the food and beverage industry,

Global Cold Chain Alliance announces convention keynote speakers

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:36:01 -0500

For the first time since 2019, GCCA will host its Convention in the spring.

Equipment suppliers provide solutions for mixers and blenders

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Dairy Foods highlights solutions for mixers and blenders.

Technology suppliers unveil the latest solutions in membrane technologies

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Technology suppliers latest solutions in membrane technologies.

The reason behind Jeni’s franchise model

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Discover the reason behind Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams franchise model and why the move will make the brand even stronger.