Celebrating World Milk Day: Honouring Dairy's Global and Local Impact

A Toast to Dairy’s Unsung Heroes

- BY SANATH NANAYAKKARE

Every year on June 1, the world comes together to celebrate World Milk Day, an initiative launched by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations in 2001. This day recognises milk as a vital global food source and highlights the dairy sector’s indispensable contributions to nutrition, livelihoods, and sustainable development.

As we mark this year’s occasion, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on milk’s health benefits, economic significance, and Sri Lanka’s evolving role in the global dairy landscape.

Why June 1?

The date was strategically chosen to align with existing milk celebrations in many countries, fostering a unified global observance. Over the years, World Milk Day has grown exponentially. For example, in 2023, over 100 countries participated, generating 1.35 billion social media impressions. Activities range from farm visits and milking demonstrations to school programmes and sustainability seminars, all underscoring the dairy’s role in delivering accessible, high-quality nutrition.

Milk: A Nutritional Powerhouse