The Latest: September - 2026
Protein Reigns Supreme in the GLP-1 Era
Protein reigns supreme over the dairy complex. In the GLP-1 era, consumers are hungry for protein in all forms, and dairy delivers. Whey proteins are particularly desirable thanks to their neutral flavor. Food processors covet whey powders, protein concentrates (WPCs), and protein isolates (WPIs) as they seek to improve nutritional labels without sacrificing on taste or texture. Demand for WPC with at least 80% protein has faded as prices have climbed high enough to push buyers to alternative sources, including milk protein concentrate. But food makers continue to snap up WPC-34 and WPIs.
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The gains were driven by impressive improvements in milk production per cow. Higher prices and mild weather have boosted milk output.
View reportSpot Cheddar is still at a rather lofty perch and spot barrels have the highest value in more than five years. The markets are doing their job.
View reportCME spot Cheddar barrels reached a five-year high, then the bids dried up.
View reportThe Cheddar market was already red hot, but barrels pushed the mercury even higher this week.
View reportFresh cheese is tight, and the markets seem to have someone – or several someones – over a barrel. High prices are working to trim demand at the margins, boost production, and attract imports.
View reportJudgment is further clouded by stupefying volatility and a sense of déjà vu. Sky-high cheese prices are simply difficult to sustain.
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