Dairy Australia chairman Paul Roderick says group aims for nutrition focus

As more Australians focus on nutrition, Dairy Australia chairman Paul Roderick says the nationwide health kick will help the sector.

Better promotion of dairy’s health benefits will maximise financial returns to both farm and factory, Dairy Australia chairman Paul Roderick says.

The Queensland dairy farmer was elected to oversee the dairy authority board last year and said while the industry had promoted the nutritional benefits of milk, cheese and yoghurt in the past, DA was working on a new approach suited to the 2020s.

Mr Roderick told The Weekly Times that health-conscience Australians in their 20s and 30s who play sport or attend the gym regularly were a growth market for dairy.

“There’s real potential for growth in our domestic market, there’s a whole new generation out there that’s really focused on the health benefits of their food and dairy has a great story to tell,” Mr Roderick said.

Dairy Australia chairman Paul Roderick with son Logan. Photo: Lyndon Mechielsen

“While there’s a lot of talk about the cost-of-living, and yes, there are many consumers out there focused on the cost-of-living, there’s also a section of the market that’s more health-conscience and willing to pay more for value-added product.

“Many people pay a premium to go to a gym or purchasing multivitamins. Dairy isn’t just about calcium — there’s real bang-for-buck nutritionally through a range of vitamins and minerals.”

Mr Roderick noted Australian culinary star Maggie Beer recently fronted a television program and advocacy campaign, successfully calling for better food standards in retirement homes.

“Dairy is a food that’s important from the cradle to the grave. Boosting dairy in retirement facilities and aged care services is also a focus for us,” he said.