Danone named first official yogurt & plant-based beverage partner of Big Ten

USA – Danone, a leading American food and beverage company, has announced a multi-year partnership with the Big Ten Conference to advance nutrition with its Oikos® high-protein yogurt and Silk® plant-based beverage brands.

 As the first official yogurt and plant-based beverages partner in the Conference’s history, Danone will explore nutrition needs of students and identify ways to bring its expertise and expand product access to the Big Ten ecosystem.

Starting in Q1 2026, Danone will initiate programs that showcase the benefits of quality nutrition. These programs reflect Danone’s mission of bringing health through food to as many people as possible, as well as its continued dedication to increasing access to nourishing foods.

With the potential to reach Big Ten campuses, athletic venues, local food pantries, and digital platforms – representing 14,000 student-athletes, 580,000 students, and the largest USA collegiate fanbase – the partnership will highlight Danone’s nutrient-rich products by leading with Oikos® and Silk® — the #1 high protein yogurt brand and plant-based beverage brand.

 “Led by our world-class research and innovation team and nutrition scientists, by bringing Oikos and Silk to Big Ten campuses, we’re providing nutrient-dense products that help students and athletes thrive — on campus and beyond,” said Dan Magliocco, President, Danone North America.

“This partnership with the Big Ten extends Danone’s global legacy of leveraging cutting-edge nutrition science and innovation to bring health through food to as many people as possible.”

Danone’s partnership with the Big Ten will spotlight its flagship brands, Oikos and Silk, through dynamic activations and athletic events that energize audiences.

The company will expand nutrition access by strengthening programs that deliver affordable, wholesome food options to students. By collaborating with campus health leaders, Danone will tailor initiatives that reflect the unique needs and lifestyles of Big Ten communities.

Finally, the partnership will emphasize education and innovation, equipping students with tools to build lasting healthy habits.

Danone and the Big Ten also share deep geographic roots across the U.S. Through its wide range of more than 50 farming partners and manufacturing sites in multiple states, Danone’s presence closely aligns with Big Ten campus communities.  

This includes its largest yogurt facility in Minster, Ohio – producing 2 million pounds of yogurt daily – as well as suppliers in California’s Central Valley that provide 100% of Danone’s almonds.

Danone also recruits talent directly from Big Ten campuses, including in Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, strengthening ties between local communities and the company.

These connections link local agriculture and career opportunities to student life and community health, highlighting how Danone sources quality ingredients close to home to create nutrient-dense products that fuel students, athletes and alumni.

“Our students and communities deserve the best when it comes to their health,” said Dr. James Borchers, Chief Medical Officer, Big Ten Conference.

“This partnership with Danone is not only about access — it’s about fueling potential. By tackling challenges like food insecurity and expanding nutrition education, we’re helping students build habits today that will support them for years to come.”

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