ORANGE—June is National Dairy Month, and a good way to celebrate is by drinking milk featuring Orange County dairy farmer Molly Elgin McWilliams.
Virginia Farm Bureau member Molly Elgin McWilliams and her daughter, Halle, are featured on cartons of Maola’s new Strawberry Whole Milk, which was released May 5. The packaging spotlight reflects a growing consumer interest in knowing the people behind their food.
“On the consumer side, content that features our farmers consistently drives the highest engagement, showing how much customers value knowing where their food comes from,” said Amanda Culp, Maola director of communications and marketing. “It makes sense to carry that through to our packaging.”
That connection resonates strongly in Virginia, which is home to 365 dairy farms where dedicated farmers care for their herds and produce fresh, high-quality milk every day, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. On average, a single dairy cow produces about 8 gallons of milk per day.
Maola, a farmer-owned dairy cooperative, focuses on the connection between farmers and consumers as part of its mission to sustainably produce high-quality dairy products.
“We want our farmers to have pride in the products we are producing,” Culp said. “It’s our duty to be good stewards of their milk.”
The new Maola Strawberry Whole Milk reflects that commitment. Made without artificial dyes, it contains 8 grams of protein and 13 essential nutrients. The product is available in Maryland, North Carolina and Virginia, including 60 Wegmans locations, 188 Ingles Markets and Sheetz stores.
Dairy products continue to play an important role in a balanced diet. Milk is rich in essential nutrients, including protein, calcium and vitamins A and D, which support bone health, help maintain healthy blood pressure and may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, according to U.S. Dairy.
As consumer demand for high-protein options grows, Maola is also expanding its product offerings. In April, the cooperative launched Maola More, an ultra-filtered milk that provides 15 grams of protein and 3 grams of prebiotic fiber, contains less sugar and is lactose-free. Maola More is available in whole milk and 2% chocolate milk varieties.
During National Dairy Month, recognizing local farmers like McWilliams emphasizes the role dairy farmers play in bringing milk from the farm to the table each day.
“The package says 100% fresh, 100% local, and it truly is,” Culp said.
Media: Contact Culp at 540-333-9873.
