Dairy

The National Cheese Institute has bestowed its highest honor, the NCI Laureate Award, on Lou Gentine, chairman and CEO of Sargento Foods Inc., Plymouth, Wis. The award was presented last week to Gentine during a special ceremony at the International Dairy Foods Association's 2012 Dairy Forum by NCI Vice Chairman Mike Reidy, who is senior vice president, supply chain and corporate affairs, for Leprino Foods Company. …

YoCrunch, the original yogurt packaged with fun, mix-in toppings, takes the Greek yogurt trend to the next level with its new Greek Parfait cups featuring toasted almonds combined with "superfruits" like acai and pomegranate. The new YoCrunch Greek Parfaits offer a new way for yogurt lovers to enjoy a fun, on-the-go breakfast or power-packed snack. …

Two recent actions, one at the state level and another at the federal level, underscored the importance of pasteurization for milk sold to consumers and helped to protect the dairy industry's strong food-safety record. …

Kraft Foods announces the launch of KRAFT FRESH TAKE, a special blend of KRAFT Natural cheeses and seasoned breadcrumbs that creates a flavorful, crispy and cheesy entree with just five minutes of prep time. Found in the dairy aisle, at-home cooks can use one of six delicious flavors and any meat or fish to quickly create a hot homemade meal. …

In light of staggering health statistics — approximately one third of Americans are considered obese, heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death among men and women nationwide and nearly 26 million Americans have diabetes — significant nutrition research findings in 2011 supported the role of dairy in helping reduce the risk for several chronic diseases. …