US: Milk remains plentiful in the Midwest despite temperatures hitting the 90 degree mark

Dairy prices have weakened and fodder availability is lean in the markets. The anticipated May Milk Production report shows a significant increase in milk output from the previous year. Cheddar blocks and barrels closed at $1.4925 and $1.5425 per pound, respectively, with block-over-barrel price inversion indicating market stability. Retail and food service cheese demand in the west remains steady, while export demand, particularly from Asian markets, has increased as prices have fallen. Milk remains plentiful in the Midwest despite high temperatures, and milk production is expected to continue increasing into the third quarter of 2021. U.S. fluid milk sales continue to decline, with whole milk sales down 10.5% from the previous year. The FDA has issued a final rule to modernize the standard of identity for yogurt, a move advocated by the International Dairy Foods Association. The IDFA and other dairy industry leaders are meeting with Members of Congress to advocate for changes to Child Nutrition Reauthorization policies and discuss the nutritional benefits of dairy products in child nutrition programs.