California Milk Advisory Board – Championing Real California Dairy
The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) is an agricultural marketing board representing over 1,100 dairy farm families across California. Established in 1969, CMAB is dedicated to promoting dairy products made with 100% Real California Milk, ensuring quality, sustainability, and innovation within the dairy industry.
Core Mission and Industry Impact
CMAB’s primary objective is to support and market California dairy products both domestically and internationally. With California being the largest dairy-producing state in the U.S., CMAB works to:
- Increase consumer awareness of Real California Milk through strategic marketing.
- Support local dairy farmers by advocating for sustainability and animal welfare.
- Expand global dairy exports and enhance the competitiveness of California dairy products.
Product Categories and Specialties
CMAB promotes a wide range of dairy products, all made with Real California Milk, including:
- Milk – Whole, skim, flavored, lactose-free, and organic milk options.
- Cheese – Over 250 varieties and styles, including artisanal and Hispanic-style cheeses.
- Yogurt – Greek yogurt, drinkable yogurt, and organic varieties.
- Butter & Cream – Premium dairy butter, sour cream, and heavy cream.
- Ice Cream & Frozen Dairy – Rich and creamy premium ice creams and frozen dairy desserts.
Market Position and Industry Leadership
- California produces over 18% of the U.S. milk supply, making it the top dairy-producing state.
- The California dairy industry generates over $7 billion in annual farm sales and contributes $21 billion to the state’s economy.
- The state exports dairy products to over 50 countries, making CMAB a significant player in global dairy trade.
Commitment to Sustainability
CMAB actively promotes sustainable dairy farming, with initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact:
- California dairy farmers have reduced their carbon footprint by 45% since 1964.
- Over 95% of California dairies are family-owned, ensuring responsible, long-term stewardship.
- The California dairy industry is on track to achieve climate neutrality by 2045 through methane reduction and renewable energy projects.
Global Exports and Expansion
CMAB facilitates California dairy exports, which have seen significant growth:
- California dairy exports exceeded $2 billion in 2023, driven by demand in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
- Key export products include cheese, milk powders, and butter, with Mexico, China, and Canada as top markets.
- CMAB actively works with international trade partners to expand the reach of Real California Milk products.
Certifications and Compliance
CMAB ensures that all Real California Milk products meet strict quality and safety standards, including:
- USDA Grade A Certification for milk and dairy processing.
- Real California Milk Seal – Guaranteeing authenticity and quality.
- Organic and Non-GMO Certifications for select dairy products.
- Kosher and Halal Certifications for specific cheese and dairy offerings.
Consumer Engagement and Recognition
CMAB’s Real California Milk campaign has gained national and global recognition:
- The Real California Milk Seal is recognized by over 90% of U.S. consumers.
- CMAB sponsors major culinary and food industry events, including partnerships with chefs and restaurateurs.
- CMAB's marketing efforts include digital campaigns, influencer partnerships, and educational initiatives to promote dairy consumption.
Major Achievements and Industry Contributions
- California produces more cheese than any other U.S. state, with over 2.5 billion pounds annually.
- The state is the No. 1 producer of Hispanic-style cheeses in the U.S., meeting growing consumer demand.
- CMAB has successfully increased California dairy exports by over 35% in the past decade.
By championing Real California Dairy, CMAB continues to elevate the California dairy industry, supporting farmers, promoting sustainability, and expanding global dairy markets.
