World Milk Day

World Milk Day History

World Milk Day is a celebration that aims to honour the nutritional value of milk in our diets and its impact on the livelihood of those involved in its production. Instituted by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in 2001, this day highlights the role of dairy farming in promoting sustainable agriculture, supporting the economy, and providing nutrition to billions.

This observance emphasizes the commitment of the global dairy industry to producing nutritious and sustainable products, as well as its dedication to social, economic and environmental responsibility. Throughout World Milk Day, events are organised across the globe to inform the public about the benefits of milk consumption and highlight the hard work of dairy farmers around the world.

World Milk Day is observed on the 1st of June each year. Share a glass of milk, enjoy a cheese platter, or indulge in your favourite milk-based treat to celebrate this important occasion.

World Milk Day facts

• One cup of milk (approximately 244 grams) can provide around 276-352 milligrams of calcium, depending on the type of milk.
• India is the largest milk producer, accounting for over 22% of global milk production, followed by the United States, China, Pakistan, and Brazil.
• According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 150 million tons of milk are lost or wasted globally each year, contributing to food waste and environmental impacts.
• Australia's dairy industry, which includes milk production, processing, and manufacturing, contributes around AUD 13.7 billion to the national economy each year.
• Australian residents consume approximately 105 liters of milk per person, per year.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Milk Day

Top things to do in Australia for World Milk Day

• Explore the 2021 World Milk Day Campaign.
• Check out events happening near you.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about the milk industry in relation to Australia. Here are our picks:
  1. Milk Wars (2016) - Produced by ABC's Four Corners, this documentary investigates the complex and highly competitive world of milk production in Australia. It features interviews with farmers and industry insiders, exposing the power struggles and economic pressures experienced by dairy farmers.
  2. Fair Go For Aussie Farmers (2018) - This short documentary focuses on the Australian dairy crisis of 2016 and its aftermath, exploring the struggles faced by dairy farmers and the community during and after the crisis.
  3. Farming in Crisis (2016) - Another ABC Four Corners documentary, this film investigates the challenges faced by the Australian agricultural industry, with a focus on the dairy farming crisis. Discussions around milk prices, supermarket policies, and the impact on farmers' livelihoods take center stage.
  4. Milking It (2014) - Presented by Landline, an Australian Broadcasting Corporation's rural news program, this documentary explores Australia's booming camel milk industry. You will find a unique perspective on an alternative milk source within Australia that is gaining popularity.
• Prepare one of these dishes to celebrate World Milk Day in Australia. Here are our top picks:
  Australian Lamington Milk Tart- Combine Australian favourites like lamington and milk tart by creating a sponge cake with a creamy milk custard filling, coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut.
  Homemade Cheese- Try your hand at making your own cheese, like ricotta, mozzarella, or paneer, using milk as the main ingredient.
  Flavoured Milk- Create your own flavoured milk by infusing milk with flavours like honey, cinnamon, and cocoa, or go for classic Aussie favourites like Milo or Ovaltine.