DGA Update: June is Dairy Month

Did you know that June has been called Dairy Month since 1939? This is a great time to recognize and celebrate our dairy farmers that provide a healthy, nutritious product. Minnesota dairy farms produce a lot of milk, ranking number 8 in the nation. Milk is an affordable nutritional source containing nine essential nutrients including protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, vitamins A, D and B12.

98% of U.S. Dairy farms are family-owned businesses. The average dairy farm has about 200 cows and the average dairy cow produces around 6.5 gallons of milk per day. It takes 21 pounds of milk to make one pound of butter. The average American eats 23 pounds of cheese per year. 

Dairy cows contribute to a sustainable food system. Cow manure can serve as a fertilizer and can be converted into electricity. Cows can take grass and turn it into food that people can eat which is pretty awesome! 

Here is a great recipe that utilizes a lot of delicious dairy products: 

Homemade Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 
• 3 cups milk 
• ¼ butter 
• 2 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour 
• 2 TBSP. butter 
• ½ cup bread crumbs 

Directions: Cook Macaroni according to package. Drain. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.  Stir in flour to make a roux. Add milk to roux slowly, stirring constantly. Stir in cheeses and cook over low heat until cheese is melted and the sauce is a little thick. Put macaroni in a large casserole dish and pour sauce over macaroni. Stir well. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add bread crumbs and brown. Spread over the macaroni and cheese to cover. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 min. Serve and enjoy!