Going beyond the DEIA headlines to elevate the health of Americans

Diversity, equity, inclusion and access (DEIA) initiatives are at the center of national conversations, with organizations across sectors taking clear positions. But beyond the headlines lies a deeper, more unifying truth: the U.S. population is more diverse than ever, and that diversity presents opportunities to support nutritional health and well-being.

To truly improve health, we need to recognize that health disparities persist in marginalized communities, with chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes disproportionately affecting low-resource areas and communities of color, which often have less access to nutritious foods and credible nutrition education. For instance, childhood obesity rates are notably higher among Black and Latino youth compared to their white peers. Maternal and infant mortality rates are significantly higher in Black communities, which often have limited access to reliable healthcare. Older adults are more likely to suffer from chronic conditions as they age.

Dairy plays a critical role in nutrition and health across the lifespan. Creating a healthier society requires a variety of approaches that recognize disparities in health outcomes to shape and promote health. As a dairy community, we have a significant opportunity to help address health and nutrition gaps by advancing milk and dairy’s important role in improving nutrition security. For example, dairy foods can help consumers meet three of the four key nutrients of public health concern which includes calcium, vitamin D and potassium.

Enhancing nutrition security through improved access

Access to nutritious foods such as dairy products is an important part of the equation. Currently, one in five Americans face uncertain or inconsistent access to food. Those most affected by food and nutrition security include children, older adults, rural communities, and Black, Latino and Native American households. Enhanced nutrition security is linked to positive outcomes, including reduced stress, improved interpersonal skills, fewer hospitalizations, and optimal growth and development. Incorporating familiar and nutrient-rich foods like milk, yogurt, and cheese — including lactose-free varieties — into healthy eating patterns can significantly improve individual and community health. Dairy products are accessible, affordable, and culturally relevant across diverse populations.

Federal nutrition programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs are critical safety nets to ensure access to healthy foods. Milk and dairy foods are an important component of federal nutrition programs, providing key nutrients that contribute to nutrition security. In California, these programs are widely supported, with the Golden State being the first in the nation to offer free school meals for all children. California also expanded its Farm to School program, easing the way for schools to purchase locally grown foods from farmers and ranchers.

As a dairy community, supporting federal meal programs like these can increase access to dairy foods across the lifespan, reduce health disparities and elevate the health of children, families and communities. That said, access to nutritious foods isn’t enough. Pairing access with nutrition education helps remove barriers to healthy eating, making it easier for individuals to adopt and sustain nutritious habits over time.

Culturally tailored nutrition education can improve health

Many underserved communities lack access to credible nutritional education. To be effective, nutrition education must meet people where they are, considering the environments in which they live, learn, work, play and gather. These social and environmental conditions, known as social determinants of health, can be leveraged to reach diverse audiences in meaningful ways. Recognizing the influence of individual preferences, cultural traditions and budgets on food choices is key to shaping lasting health outcomes.

Dairy foods can be easily integrated into culturally relevant nutrition education because dairy is enjoyed in different varieties around the world. In addition to being affordable, milk and dairy foods support nutrition across the life span and fit into a variety of cuisines.

To address the need for diverse nutrition education opportunities, Dairy Council of California received funding from the National Association of County and City Health Officials to collaborate with partners to create culturally responsive nutrition education resources for families that are Hispanic/Latino or of Black or Caribbean heritage. These digital resources focused on babies’ first foods are relevant and relatable, using traditional foods, spices and beloved meals.

The changing workforce

While many dairies continue to be run by farm families, the American workforce, including many large processors and food manufacturers, also continues to increase in diversity. According to the 2020 Census, 43% of the population identifies as people of color, with Hispanic, Latino, and multiracial groups seeing the fastest growth. However, representation in leadership, education and healthcare often lag these demographic changes. Women, particularly women of color, remain underrepresented in leadership roles.

The workforce now spans five generations, from the Silent Generation to Generation Z. This multigenerational diversity brings fresh perspectives, spurs innovation and creates multidirectional mentorship opportunities that enhance team performance.

Studies consistently show that inclusive work cultures improve business outcomes, are better at making decisions and foster transformational change. Industry leaders have a critical role in fostering a collaborative environment to drive dairy forward through deepening cultural understanding, strengthening connections with consumers and supporting nutrition security in meaningful ways.

By appreciating the influence of culture and traditions on food choices, and by providing tailored nutrition education messages, the dairy community can help improve nutrition security and support optimal health for families and communities. This includes making sure dairy products meet cultural, religious, and flavor profile preferences of different consumers, and being mindful of how a diverse workforce contribute to innovation and new ideas.

Through collective efforts, we can ensure that milk and dairy foods are a valued part of nutritious food access for all, and a part of healthy eating patterns. In addition, access to more dairy products can reach millions of individuals in California and throughout the United States each year, positively impacting countless lives and fostering a healthier, more vibrant future. DF