The National Dairy Council (NDC) is urging people to raise a glass for World Milk Day, encouraging everyone to get involved using the hashtags #LoveIrishDairy and #WorldMilkDay.

In recent years there have been some negative reports of the dairy sector and the NDC has pointed to several reasons why milk produced in Ireland is so important.

  • In Ireland, approximately 99% of the water used for milk production is supplied naturally by rainfall. With almost zero impact on water stress, Ireland is one of the best places in the world for sustainable milk production.
  • Milk is naturally one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. Just 100ml is a source of eight essential nutrients – protein, riboflavin, vitamin B12, calcium, iodine, potassium, phosphorus and pantothenic acid.
  • Dairy production is a major contributor to the Irish economy, with export value reaching around €4bn each year. The sector supports 60,000 jobs and for every €1 spent in the sector, an additional €2.50 is spent in the Irish economy.
  • Milk is a Neolithic food - it is estimated that milk drinking began around 7,500 years ago in central Europe. Archaeological evidence includes ancient wall paintings, residues on clay pots and from prehistoric teeth.
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