ST. LOUIS – June is dairy month – the perfect time to thank the farmers who produce delicious and nutritious dairy foods. Originally known as National Milk Month, June Dairy Month highlights the health benefits of dairy foods and the importance of the dairy industry. Today, dairy farmers are not only making strides on the farm but also in the community by educating consumers on dairy cows, dairy farms and dairy foods.
For more than 90 years, the St. Louis District Dairy Council (SLDDC) has been able to contribute to this community movement. This year, in partnership with the Southwest Dairy Museum Inc., SLDDC is excited to bring the Mobile Dairy Classroom to consumers throughout Missouri and Illinois. The Mobile Dairy Classroom, a 32-foot classroom on wheels, began visiting schools in May, traveling through 10 counties in Illinois. Moving into June, the Mobile Dairy Classroom will reach even more consumers as it makes its way to county and state fairs, as well as to local community events throughout SLDDC’s territory.
“Only two percent of Americans are connected to agriculture, so the Mobile Dairy Classroom tells the story of where dairy foods come from, and how dairy farmers take care of their land, cows and communities,” said SLDDC nutrition educator and registered dietitian Jessica Kassel.
Louise, the Jersey cow traveling with the Mobile Dairy Classroom, allows the classroom to be a fully operational milking parlor. During the program, consumers of all ages see how Louise is milked and learn how milk travels from cow to carton.
In addition to learning about dairy cows and dairy farms, consumers are also educated on the nutritional benefits of dairy foods.
“The Mobile Dairy Classroom teaches consumers that they need three servings of dairy every day, and that the nutrients in dairy help them to have strong bones, teeth and muscles,” Kassel said. A serving of dairy can be 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of yogurt or 1.5 ounces of cheese, allowing individuals to tailor their dairy consumption to their eating habits and lifestyle.
Join SLDDC in celebrating June Dairy Month by following along with the Mobile Dairy Classroom as it makes multiple stops this summer, educating on all things dairy! The Mobile Dairy Classroom will continue visiting schools throughout Missouri and Illinois in the 2023-2024 school year.
For additional information on dairy foods and dairy recipes, visit www stldairycouncil.org, call (314) 835-9668, email jkassel@STLDairyCouncil.org or visit SLDDC on Facebook and Instagram at STLDairyCouncil.
About the St. Louis District Dairy Council
The St. Louis District Dairy Council (SLDDC) is a nonprofit nutrition education organization funded by local dairy farmers. Since 1932, SLDDC has served 131 counties in central/southern Illinois and eastern Missouri as the go-to educational resource and advocate for the role of dairy foods as part of a healthful diet. As The Nutrition Education People, we are proud to spread knowledge to local communities, bridging the gap between local dairy farmers and consumers. The staff is comprised of professionals with experience in nutrition, food service management, education and communications, and we take pride in delivering engaging programs throughout the communities we serve.
Kabobs on the Go
Whether you are packing lunches for on the go or you are running short on time, these dairy-packed kabobs are the perfect snack or lunch option for all ages! Try creating your own kabobs using some of your favorite fruits, veggies, meats and cheeses.
Yield: 1 serving
Prep: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
2 skewers
4 cherry tomatoes
4 bell pepper slices
2 cheddar cheese cubes
2 Colby jack cheese cubes
2 pepper jack cheese cubes
4 slices of low-sodium turkey (or your favorite lunch meat)
Directions:
- Place a cheese cube on the end of each skewer. Add the other ingredients to the skewer, mixing up the order of ingredients as you go. Place another cheese cube at the end of each skewer to hold all of the ingredients onto the skewer.
- Pack in a to-go container and refrigerate to enjoy later or enjoy once the skewers are completed!
Optional: Serve with a yogurt dip for some extra dipping goodness!