Arla Foods partners Valley Queen to boost U.S. high-protein dairy production 

USA –  Arla Foods Ingredients, a leading dairy-based functional food specialist, has entered into a contract manufacturing agreement with Valley Queen, a South Dakota-based dairy processor, to expand its production of high-protein dairy products in the United States. 

The partnership focuses on Arla’s Nutrilac ProteinBoost range, a whey protein ingredient designed to meet the rising demand for protein-enriched food and beverages across the U.S. market.

Reported by Arla Foods Ingredients, this collaboration aims to strengthen its foothold in North America by leveraging Valley Queen’s established dairy processing capabilities. 

The Nutrilac ProteinBoost range, which includes a patented microparticulate whey protein concentrate, is crafted to boost protein levels in various products while maintaining a pleasant taste and texture. 

This innovation responds to growing consumer interest in high-protein dairy options, such as yogurts, drinks, and cheeses, which have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Valley Queen, a privately owned company with a workforce of 440 employees, already processes approximately 1.36 billion kilograms of milk and produces 150 million kilograms of cheese each year. 

To support the production of Nutrilac ProteinBoost, the company plans to install new specialized equipment at its Milbank, South Dakota facility. 

According to a report by Arla, this upgrade is expected to be completed by winter 2025 or early 2026, enabling Valley Queen to begin manufacturing the protein-enhanced ingredients.

Luis Cubel, Group Vice President and Managing Director of Arla Foods Ingredients, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership. 

“The demand for protein-enriched dairy products continues to grow in the U.S., so we’re looking to meet it with our North American growth plan,” he said. 

Cubel highlighted that Valley Queen was chosen for its long-standing reputation in producing high-quality dairy and whey products, aligning with Arla’s values and expertise.

Doug Wilke, CEO of Valley Queen, expressed optimism about the collaboration. 

“Nutrilac ProteinBoost is a highly innovative ingredient, which offers the perfect way to create appealing dairy products enriched with high-quality protein,” he stated. 

Wilke added that the company looks forward to a lasting and fruitful relationship with Arla Foods Ingredients, a global leader in whey nutrition.

This partnership marks a significant step for Arla Foods Ingredients, a subsidiary of Arla Foods cooperative, as it expands its presence in the U.S. whey protein market. 

With consumer trends shifting toward healthier, protein-rich diets, the agreement positions both companies to meet evolving needs efficiently. 

By increasing local production capacity, Arla aims to reduce reliance on imports and ensure a steady supply of premium dairy ingredients to American manufacturers, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and growth in the region.

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