One of the largest ag groups representing the U.S. dairy industry has pledged to eliminate the use of artificial food dyes in ice cream made by America’s major dairy producers. That announcement outside of USDA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. on Monday afternoon. One of Indiana’s dairy producers was there to share in that announcement.
“It is essential we consume good, wholesome food products. That is what we’re here to say today, and to promise to America,” said Sam Schwoeppe, who owns Schwoeppe Dairy in Huntingburg in southwestern Indiana. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Prairie Farms Dairy cooperative and American Dairy Association Indiana (ADAI).
“For families like ours, ice cream is much more than just a treat or a dessert. It’s how we make our living, and how we support our families and our communities,” said Schwoeppe.
She joined U.S. Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy, Jr., as the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) says they pledge to partner with America’s major ice cream producers to voluntarily eliminate the use of food dyes in ice creams and other frozen dairy desserts.
Those article dyes include: Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6.
“We, at Prairie Farms, are pleased to join this commitment, along with dozens of other ice cream makers and dairy farmers across the United States of America,” she said.
Schwoeppe adds that milk and ice cream serve as superior alternative to soda pop and candy.
“As identified by the dietary guidelines for Americans, milk contains many of the nutrients of public health concern, including calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and of course, protein. These nutrients are often under consumed in the United States and they’re linked to various health issues,” said Schwoeppe. “Products containing real dairy are the most nutritious options. Even though ice cream is decadent and has calories, it sure beats the heck out of candy and soda pop for a sweet treat.”
IDFA has set a timeline of January 1, 2028 for America’s major dairy producers to no longer include artificial food dyes in ice cream and frozen dairy desserts.
CLICK BELOW for Hoosier Ag Today’s radio news report:
CLICK BELOW to watch the full announcement from USDA, FDA, and IDFA. Indiana Dairy producer Sam Schwoeppe’s comments begin at 18:49.
