Most Canadians incorporate a variety of dairy products into their diets, driven by the nutrient content, brimming with vitamins and minerals that contribute to a healthy diet. You might love milk with cereal, or you might enjoy yogurt with fruits for breakfast as part of a balanced lifestyle—and because it's a delicious combo!

Have you ever wondered what the nutritional characteristics of specific dairy products are? What vitamins and minerals does milk contain, and which dairy products contain higher amounts of protein? The benefits are plentiful when you know exactly where to look for them. And trust us: calcium is only one of the many reasons to enjoy dairy products. Today, we'll take the time to dive in and explore them all.

What are the benefits of dairy products?

Calcium

Dairy products are one of the main sources of calcium in one's diet. They come in several forms: cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese, and so many more, which, as we are about to see, are part of delicious recipes fit for every meal of the day. And with your meals—or in between!—you get to enjoy the fresh satisfaction of the quintessential dairy product: a glass of milk, such as Dairyland's Microfiltered Milk – whose microfiltration process keeps it fresh longer. Milk is an excellent source of calcium which aids in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth.

Vitamins

Dairies contain many important vitamins, such as vitamin D, which improves calcium absorption and helps build strong teeth and bones. Like all skim, 1% and 2% milks, Dairyland’s Organic Milk is fortified with not only vitamin D, but also vitamin A. This 100% Canadian organic milk is the glass of goodness that provides you and your family with many important vitamins and minerals. Vitamin A, in addition to helping with the maintenance of a normal vision, also contributes to building strong bones and teeth. And that’s not all! Vitamin A is also known to contribute to the normal function of the immune system, and in maintaining the health of the skin.

Protein

As a staple of a balanced diet, protein helps build strong muscles. Everyday dairy products such as milk and cheese constitute a prime source of protein. Fat-free cottage cheese, which boasts high protein and low-fat content, stands out as a natural choice for anyone aiming at a balanced lifestyle. Looking for an alternative source of protein? Try Dairyland’s Protein Beverage. Containing a solid 18 g of protein per serving, it is an invaluable ally to your active lifestyle.

How to consume dairy products?

Breakfast

There are endless ways to consume dairy for breakfast! For a wholesome (and easy) start to your day, try making overnight Key Lime Chia Pudding using Dairyland Lactose Free Skim Milk. Also, make sure you give this overnight Golden Milk Oatmeal a try -- a delicious bowl of goodness, enhanced by Joyya Ultrafiltered Milk’s smooth texture! You're a brunch aficionado? Try making these Blueberry and Cottage Cheese Pancakes, which contains a full cup of cottage cheese --- which alone boasts a whopping 34 g of protein.

Snack

Wondering about ways to take dairy goodness with you to snack on later? Fret not—all you need is a conveniently-packed snack. Try making these Aged Cheddar, Chive and Buttermilk Biscuits. They represent all the rich deliciousness of dairy—thanks to aged cheddar and Dairyland’s Buttermilk—packed into moist biscuits you’ll be happy to take with you on the go. Have them with tea or coffee to up your day a notch.

Lunch and Dinner

Have you ever realized how many amazing recipes are made so by their use of dairy products? Like the refreshing sour cream and the flavourful Mexican cheese in these Chicken Taquitos, or the milk in a Thai Vegetable Curry. Oftentimes, there is no secret ingredient to a great dish: it's simply the dairy.