Milk has long been a staple product in American households, and the dairy market in the United States continues to thrive. With a projected growth rate of 4.96% through 2026, the U.S. dairy market is expected to reach new heights. In 2023, the market size was already an impressive $310.07 billion. In this article, we will explore the top ten milk brands in the United States, their unique features, and their contributions to the dairy industry.
1. Private Label
- Annual Revenue (2021): $199 billion
Private label milk, also known as store-brand milk, is produced by third-party companies but sold under a store’s label or brand name. This allows retailers to offer their own branded products without the need to develop their own recipes or production methods. Private label milk products have gained popularity due to their association with quality and value. As of 2000, 70% of all fluid milk sales in the United States were private-label.
2. The Dannon Company
- Annual Revenue (2022): $29.144 billion
- Website – https://www.dannon.com/
The Dannon Company, founded in 1942 by Daniel Carasso, is the first American yogurt company. Over the years, it has expanded its product offerings and became the largest public benefit corporation (PBC) and Certified B Corp in the world. The company offers a wide range of products, including Activia, Danimals, International Delight, Silk, Oikos, and more.
3. Dean Foods
- Annual Revenue (2021): $19.3 billion
- Website – http://www.deanfoods.com/
Dean Foods, the largest dairy subsidiary in the United States, has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. It offers a variety of dairy products, including milk, ice cream, cheese, and juices. Despite filing for bankruptcy in 2019, Dean Foods continues to be a significant player in the dairy industry, as it was acquired by the Dairy Farmers of America in 2020.
4. Prairie Farms Dairy
- Annual Revenue (2022): $3.4 billion
- Website – https://www.prairiefarms.com/
Prairie Farms Dairy, founded in 1938, is a dairy cooperative that sources milk from producers and converts it into various products like cheese, butter, ice cream, and yogurt. The company is known for its commitment to quality and innovation in the dairy industry. Prairie Farms products are available in grocery chains, mass merchandiser stores, convenience stores, and foodservice outlets across 16 states in the United States.
5. Hood Lactaid
- Annual Revenue (2022): $2.7 billion
- Website – https://hood.com/
Hood Lactaid, also known as HP Hood LLC, is an American dairy company that has been in operation since 1846. It offers a wide range of dairy products, including milk, cream, ice cream, and yogurt. Hood Lactaid is known for its acquisitions of other dairy companies and brands, expanding its reach across the United States.
6. Borden Dairy Company
- Annual Revenue (2022): $1.4 billion
- Website – https://www.bordendairy.com/
Borden Dairy Company, founded in 1857, is a privately owned dairy processor and distributor. The company offers a diverse range of dairy products, including milk, cream, butter, and cheese. Borden Dairy has a rich history and is known for its iconic “spokescow,” Elsie the Cow.
7. Organic Valley
- Annual Revenue (2022): $1.2 billion
- Website – https://www.organicvalley.coop/
Organic Valley is an independent cooperative of organic farms that specializes in producing organic dairy products. Established in 1988, the cooperative is one of the largest farmer-owned organic cooperatives in the world. Organic Valley offers a wide range of products, including milk, cheese, eggs, and organic snack items.
8. Fairlife
- Annual Revenue (2022): $1 billion
- Website – https://fairlife.com/
Fairlife, a brand owned by The Coca-Cola Company, offers a unique line of ultrafiltered milk. The company’s filtration process removes lactose and much of the sugar, resulting in a product with higher protein and calcium content. Fairlife milk comes in various flavors and has gained popularity since its launch in 2014.
9. Hiland Dairy
- Annual Revenue (2022): $632.8 million
- Website – https://hilanddairy.com/
Hiland Dairy Foods, a full-service dairy company, has been in business for over 30 years. The company is owned by local dairy farmers who provide fresh milk for Hiland dairy products. Hiland Dairy offers a wide range of dairy products, including milk, buttermilk, ice cream, and yogurt, and operates across several states in the Midwest.
10. Cream-O-Land Dairy
- Annual Revenue (2022): $290.6 million
- Website – https://www.creamoland.com/
Cream-O-Land Dairy, founded in 1943, is a family-owned dairy company that delivers fresh dairy products to grocery stores, supermarkets, schools, and colleges. With a focus on quality and service, Cream-O-Land offers a variety of dairy products, including milk, butter, cream, and cheese, across several states in the Northeastern United States.
In conclusion
The U.S. dairy market is thriving, and the top ten milk brands play a significant role in shaping the industry. From private-label milk to established brands like The Dannon Company and Dean Foods, each brand brings its unique offerings to consumers. Whether it’s organic products from Organic Valley or innovative ultrafiltered milk from Fairlife, these brands continue to meet the demands of consumers across the United States.
