New research shows Gen Z and Moo-llennials drink more milk now than ever before

New research from Dairy Australia has revealed Gen Z and Millennials are drinking more milk now than ever before.

People aged 18 to 34 are on average consuming 11 per cent more dairy a day than just six months ago, with 85 per cent of Australians believing consuming dairy is a wholesome and healthy food — an all-time high for the industry.

Dairy Australia dietitian Kristina Gorgievska said while many Australians may have a different reason to pick up dairy foods — such as milk, cheese, and yogurt — they are all underlined by a wide variety of health benefits..

“Increasingly, we’re seeing health-conscious Aussies recognise dairy’s wholefood health and nutrition benefits. People are turning to dairy for a natural nutrient boost, and there’s no doubt that social media has played a part,” she said.

“Trends such as functional foods are pushing Aussies to reach for dairy for their health hit, whether that’s for probiotics and gut health or a protein-packed punch.”

According to Dairy Australia, social media trends have seen cottage cheese making its way into flatbreads, cakes, and salad dressings and Australia’s growing focus on protein as a key macronutrient has taken centre stage.

Mrs Gorgievska said the dairy food group’s naturally occurring package of 10 essential nutrients and a myriad health benefits have been a mainstay in its health credentials.

The latest consumption data from 2023-2024 estimates Australians each consume an average of 88 litres of milk, 12.5 kilograms of cheese and 10kg of yoghurt per year.