Food & Drink

The 15 Largest Dairy Companies In The United States

Largest Dairy Companies Research Summary

The largest dairy company in the U.S. is Kraft Heinz Co, with 2023 sales reaching $27 billion.
As of 2023, the U.S. dairy industry has a market size of $130 billion.
Globally, over 6 billion people consume dairy products.
The global dairy market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.39% through 2030.

Dairy farming has been integral to American culture since the first cow arrived in Jamestown in 1611. For centuries, many families maintained their own cows for milk and dairy products. While this practice declined over time, the delivery of milk to doorsteps surged during WWII as part of food conservation efforts.

Despite fluctuations in the industry, dairy continues to be a staple in the American diet. In 2023, the U.S. produced over 220 billion pounds (or 26.5 billion gallons) of milk, with the average American consuming approximately 660 pounds of dairy products annually.

All 50 states host dairy farms, with 95% being family-owned. However, most of their milk is processed, packaged, and marketed by larger corporations, which contribute significantly to the economy and employment in rural areas.

Here’s a list of the 15 largest dairy processing companies in the U.S., ranked by their sales in 2023.

global dairy product consumption

15 Largest Dairy Companies

Kraft Heinz Co.

Chicago, Illinois, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2023 Sales: $27.0 billion

Kraft Heinz is recognized for a diverse range of food products, ranking as the largest dairy company in the U.S. based on dairy sales alone. Their dairy portfolio includes processed cheeses like Velveeta and natural varieties such as Cracker Barrel cheddar, alongside brands like Philadelphia and Breakstone’s.
Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.

Kansas City, Kansas
2023 Sales: $25.5 billion

Dairy Farmers of America is a cooperative of over 13,000 farmers who supply milk for processing and distribution. Their brands include Borden Cheese, Breakstone’s Butter, and more, primarily serving regional markets.
Nestlé USA

Arlington, Virginia
2023 Sales: $22.0 billion

Despite selling its ice cream business, Nestlé USA remains a key player in the U.S. dairy sector. The company’s dairy brands include Carnation, Coffee-mate, and Häagen-Dazs.
Danone North America

White Plains, New York, and Broomfield, Colorado
2023 Sales: $21.5 billion

Since acquiring WhiteWave Foods, Danone North America has expanded its presence significantly. Their brand portfolio includes Activia, Dannon, and Horizon Organic.
Conagra Brands

Chicago, Illinois
2023 Sales: $12.0 billion

Conagra’s revenue includes significant contributions from dairy products, with brands like Reddi-wip and Healthy Choice leading their dairy segment.
Land O’Lakes, Inc.

Arden Hills, Minnesota
2023 Sales: $10.5 billion

Founded in 1921, Land O’Lakes remains a major cooperative with over 1,700 dairy farmers. The company produces various dairy products, including cheese under several private labels.
Unilever, North American Operations

Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey
2023 Sales: $9.0 billion

Unilever’s ranking reflects its diverse product range, including popular frozen dairy brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Breyers.
Glanbia Nutritionals, U.S.

Chicago, IL
2023 Sales: $6.5 billion

Glanbia Nutritionals focuses on cheese production and whey protein powders, serving clients on a contract basis in the U.S.
Schreiber Foods, Inc.

Green Bay, Wisconsin
2023 Sales: $5.5 billion

Schreiber Foods specializes in private-label products, producing a variety of dairy items for retailers and food manufacturers worldwide.
Prairie Farms Dairy.

Edwardsville, Illinois
2023 Sales: $4.0 billion

A cooperative with over 700 farm families, Prairie Farms produces a range of dairy products and collaborates with other brands.
The Kroger Co.

Cincinnati, Ohio
2023 Sales: $3.8 billion

Kroger, primarily known for its grocery stores, also produces a variety of dairy items, including private-label products.
Leprino Foods Co.

Denver, Colorado
2023 Sales: $1.8 billion

As the largest producer of mozzarella cheese globally, Leprino Foods is also a key player in whey protein production.
Great Lakes Cheese.

Hiram, Ohio
2023 Sales: $800 million

Great Lakes Cheese specializes in cheese products, including natural and processed varieties, and is known for its brand Adams Reserve.
Lactalis Group, North American Operations

Buffalo, New York
2023 Sales: $400 million

Lactalis operates globally and supports local farmers and food traditions, with brands focused on cheese and yogurt.
California Dairies, Inc.

Visalia, California
2023 Sales: $300 million

California Dairies, a cooperative of nearly 400 families, produces milk, butter, and milk powder, competing closely with Land O’Lakes.

Dairy Industry FAQ

What are some of the major trends in the dairy industry?

The most significant trend in the dairy industry is a focus on sustainability. With rising concerns about the environmental impact of dairy farming, companies are exploring innovative practices. Other current trends include:
- Product innovation to regain market share
- Increased emphasis on digestive health benefits
- Growth in organic dairy products
- Popularity of frozen novelties
- Expansion of e-commerce in dairy sales
- Shifts back to pre-pandemic shopping behaviors
What state has the largest dairy industry?

California leads the U.S. dairy industry, housing 1.75 million milk cows. Other major dairy-producing states include Wisconsin (1.3 million), Idaho (670,000), Texas (660,000), and New York (640,000).

The largest dairy company, Kraft Heinz, is headquartered in Illinois.

Food & Drink

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Abby McCain

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.

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