United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) partnered with Bigger Table, a non-profit firm that brings the food and beverage industry together, with support from Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), and the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) to distribute smoothie packets to families across Michigan.
“UDIM provided an initial investment to support the packaging and distribution of the smoothie packets as part of this initiative,” explains Corby Werth, UDIM President and dairy farmer in Alpena, Michigan. “Along with our dairy industry partners, these efforts helped secure the necessary ingredients to make this massive distribution possible. It’s a proud moment as a dairy farmer.”
This effort aligns with September Hunger Action Month, a time when communities come together to raise awareness about hunger and act to reduce food insecurity. The smoothie packets, rich in essential nutrients, will provide a healthy and convenient option for families who might otherwise struggle to access nutritious food.
“Providing these smoothie packets to families in Michigan exemplifies dairy farmers’ commitment to supporting community health through accessible dairy nutrition,” says Cortney Freeland, UDIM Vice President of Strategic Partnerships. “Collaborations like these are vital to address food insecurity and ensure all our neighbors have access to nutritious, dairy-rich options.”
“We are so appreciative to receive and distribute these ready-to-mix smoothie packets. The flexibility and convenience to mix them with water or fresh milk is a game changer for many of our neighbors,” says Kelly Miller, Chief Development Officer at Greater Lansing Food Bank. “They are a wonderful, innovative solution to increase access to nutritious dairy for our neighbors, especially students of all ages.”
Bigger Table, known for its innovative approach to tackling hunger and nutrition challenges, has been instrumental in making this project a reality. Their collaboration with UDIM and support from key industry partners resulted in the milestone of distributing 1 million smoothie packets.
“The fact is that there is enough food produced to feed everyone, but it’s often in the wrong place or the wrong form to help those who need it most. Bigger Table and its partners have built a model to help fix this complex issue,” says Bigger Table Executive Director Alan Reed.
"We're grateful for the collaboration of UDIM, MMPA and DFA, among others, to help Gleaners and other food banks provide convenient options for balanced nutrition to our guests," says Julie Beamer, Gleaners Chief Operating Officer. "These shelf-stable smoothies not only offer a significant source of protein and other nutrients, but they also give our partners and guests the flexibility to use these healthy resources when and where they need them most."
For more information about UDIM, visit milkmeansmore.org.
About the United Dairy Industry of Michigan
The United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) is dedicated to serving Michigan’s hard-working dairy farm families and promoting Michigan’s locally produced dairy products. UDIM is the umbrella organization for the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council of Michigan. These non-profit organizations provide dairy product promotion and nutrition education services on behalf of their funding members.
