In recent years, an increasing number of women have eliminated dairy from their diets. This trend is largely driven by concerns about bovine growth hormones, animal welfare, and digestive issues, along with a significantly broader range of milk and dairy alternatives available. Women are particularly vulnerable to osteoporosis and reduced bone density after menopause, necessitating a higher intake of calcium—1,000 mg daily for women under 50. However, women typically consume less iron in the form of ferrous fumarate or ferrous sulfate compared to men. In Australia and the U.K., public health advocates have expressed alarm that the rising number of women avoiding dairy has reached “dangerous levels.” According to USDA data, milk consumption across all demographics has halved since the late 1970s, while farmgate milk prices have significantly dropped. Interestingly, total dairy consumption has actually risen, with per capita yogurt intake climbing to nearly 15 pounds annually, compared to just two pounds in 1975. However, yogurt still does not contribute significantly to the overall dairy servings for Americans.
In response to these shifts, the dairy industry is focusing on promoting liquid calcium and magnesium, along with protein-enhanced and other functional products, while highlighting the fresh and natural qualities of milk. Recent studies supporting the health benefits of dairy consumption may bolster the industry’s efforts. Nevertheless, as more women adopt dietary guidelines that encourage greater consumption of plant-based foods, the dairy sector—and researchers on early menopause—will need to continue their efforts to demonstrate that dairy remains essential for women’s health, particularly in providing vital nutrients such as liquid calcium and magnesium. Ultimately, convincing women of the importance of dairy in their diets will be crucial for the future of the industry as they navigate these changing dietary preferences.