World Milk Day is time to remember its benefits and nutritional richness - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

Sunday, June 1, marked World Milk Day, promoted by the United Nations through its Specialised Agency for Food and Agriculture (FAO) since 2001.

This date aims to recognise the importance of milk in nutrition and its contribution to the economic and social development of agriculture worldwide.

In the Azores, the Institute for Food and Agricultural Markets (IAMA), in collaboration with the Regional Directorate for Education and Educational Administration, is marking this occasion by sending a digital flyer to around 13,140 preschool and elementary school students, raising awareness of the benefits of milk.

The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food acknowledges and thanks all milk producers and other agents in the sector for their daily effort and dedication. Azorean milk stands out for its good agricultural practices, particularly in animal health and welfare, milking hygiene, nutrition and environmental sustainability.

It should be noted that Azorean milk increased its average protein content by two hundredths in 2024, increasing its nutritional value and positioning itself as an increasingly rich and complete food for consumers.

The Azores Agricultural Federation has taken on a strategic role in the consolidation and evolution of the dairy sector, through the joint establishment of appropriate policies aimed at promoting competitiveness, the role of producers and the sustainability of regional milk production. Its contribution is essential to ensure balanced decisions that are representative of the entire sector.

Based on a highly qualified production chain and a modernised industrial complex, the dairy sector is the main pillar of the Azorean economy, accounting for a large part of the Region's exports. The presence of milk in international dietary guidelines underlines its importance as an essential food for growth, development and the maintenance of vital functions at all stages of life.

"Good agricultural practices in milk production and the implementation of effective procedures at all stages of production highlight the unique composition of Azorean milk. It has unparalleled qualities, enriched by the quality of our cows‘ feed and pastures, which are renowned for their natural nutritional values," stressed António Ventura, Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food.

He added: "Milk is an agrifood product that spans generations; it is sustainable and ensures economic and social multifunctionality."