June has been formally declared as "Maine Dairy Month" in a recent ceremony celebrating the vital contributions of Maine's dairy farmers and producers.
“Dairy Month is a celebration of the dedication and craftsmanship of dairy farmers, creameries, and dairy businesses, who operate at the heart of our states agricultural heritage and economy," said Amanda Beal, Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. "Make June a month of Maine-made dairy experiences, from ice cream and cheese to yogurt and milk."
Maine is home to more than 200 dairy farms that care for herds of dairy cows, goats, and sheep and that steward 700,000 acres of farmlands. Because of their work, the state boasts award winning cheeses, yogurt, ice cream, and butter made exclusively with Maine milk and cream. Maine also benefits from dairy processors that bottle and sell milk year-round at retail locations statewide. In addition to agricultural products, farms provide numerous public benefits, such as scenic open spaces that enrich local communities.
"Every day, dairy farmers rise before the sun, embodying dedication and resilience-their hard work nourishes our communities and sustains our traditions and economy,"said Craig Lapine, Bureau of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources Director. "Valuing dairy farmers means recognizing their indispensable role in our society and ensuring their legacy thrives for generations."
Consumers can easily identify milk produced in Maine by referring to the plant code on the carton or jug. All milk bottled in Maine bears a code beginning with the number 23. When at the grocery store, you can be sure your milk is from Maine by looking at the plant code on the top of every carton or jug. Maine processors all stamp their milk with a code that starts with 23 with the other two numbers indicate the plant where it was bottled.
HP Hood - 23-03
Houlton Farms Dairy - 23-20
Oakhurst Dairy - 23-01
Smiling Hill Farm Dairy - 23-31
The Maine Milk Commission says 99% of milk produced here goes to a commercial plant and then to stores throughout New England. Maine does not currently have an organic milk processor, but you can support Maine organic dairy farmers by purchasing products from Organic Valley and Stonyfield Organic.Supporting Maine dairy farmers is easy as there are also many options on store shelves for cheeses, ice creams, butter and more that are made with Maine milk.