2024 May Board Book

Multi-Strategies Activities

Small Plant Feasibility Study CDIC was invited to work with Chico State on their dairy products plant feasibility plan, a small-scale facility which would serve as educational hub, processing facility for the university’s dairy farm, and could be leased to entrepreneurs and small processors. The feasibility project which had been on hold due to staff transition, is to resume in Q3 and is supported by the University president and provost.

Innovation Grants for Industry The Pacific Coast Coalition opened another $4.1 million available to industry for innovation and plant expansion grants. Applications closed February 29 and were reviewed by Committees. The list of awards will be posted at: https://www.dairypcc.net/ .

Diversifying Product Portfolio Several projects were initiated at CalPoly SLO and Chapman University to develop know how in emerging categories and support processors, as well as to serve as basis for further feasibility studies.

Fiber milks – testing a variety of probiotic and other fibers in lactose-free milk. Project at CalPoly (screening) and Chapman (applications in ESL and UHT beverages). Fibers tested include soluble fibers with probiotic, gut health and glucose management properties. “Fibre Plus” – enriched milk introduced in the UK. Barista milks – benchmarking of lactose-free milk vs. plant alternatives. The project is designed to measure the functionality of plant-based milks formulated for baristas, compare and contrast with the properties of lactose-free milks. Learnings will be used as needed to further optimize lactose-free milk and regain share in food service operations. Many brands of plant- based alternatives offer formulated “baristas” versions of their products for coffee shop convenience.