WASHINGTON, February 19, 2026—The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced it will purchase up to $148 million in American dairy products to support U.S. producers and deliver nutritious foods to food banks and federal nutrition assistance programs nationwide. The purchase includes significant quantities of butter, cheddar, Swiss and other cheese products, and fresh and ultra-high temperature milk.

Michael Dykes, president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, released the following statement:

“IDFA applauds USDA’s significant investment in nutritious U.S. dairy products for Americans who rely on food assistance and federal nutrition programs. Milk, cheese, butter and other dairy foods deliver essential nutrients that support health at every stage of life. We thank USDA for supporting America’s dairy farmers and processors while ensuring wholesome, nutrient-dense foods reach communities in need.”

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Contact: press@idfa.org

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), Washington, D.C., represents the nation’s dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, which supports more than 3 million jobs that generate $198 billion in direct wages and $779 billion in overall economic impact. IDFA’s diverse membership ranges from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, from dairy companies and cooperatives to food retailers and suppliers, all on the cutting edge of innovation and sustainable business practices. Together, they represent most of the milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and cultured products, and dairy ingredients produced and marketed in the United States and sold throughout the world. Delicious, safe and nutritious, dairy foods offer unparalleled health and consumer benefits to people of all ages.