So many of us have overflowing work plates, and we seldom stop to consider the value of the product we are producing for consumers. The simple answer is that beverage milk is among the biggest bargains in the grocery aisle when compared to other beverage options. Don’t be afraid to share that important message with consumers.

Milk selling for $2 to $3 per gallon may sound expensive for a cash-strapped consumer. While we should be empathetic and listen to that viewpoint, also bear in mind that most beverages are not sold by the gallon, and milk’s unit price can initially sound high. A little math can shed light on the true bargain delivered by milk.

We recently looked at sale prices in our local newspaper and converted all the beverages to gallons. Some beverages were sold in 12-ounce cans, with sizes escalating up to 52-ounce containers. However, no other product was sold in the 128-ounce gallon package.

How did milk’s value stack up?

While sale prices may vary in your region, the order will stay nearly the same. Not only was milk the lowest cost product, consumers received so much more when making their purchase. Many of the aforementioned products contain “empty” calories. By empty, we mean that those products do not deliver the deep bench of essential nutrients found in milk.

Cow’s milk is not only the number one source of calcium, it also delivers significant levels of vitamin D, phosphorus, protein, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-12, and vitamin A. Many of those nutrients not only help build strong teeth and bones, they build muscle mass, boost immune function, enhance metabolism, and support a host of additional critical body functions. While always important to human health, those attributes are even more vital during a health pandemic.

The next time a consumer suggests milk is too expensive, be ready with the facts. Milk is not only a bargain when considering the cost of other beverages, it also delivers the most value for their hard-earned dollar.