National Milk Day is observed each year on January 11 in the United States to commemorate how milk delivery changed in 1878. Before this time, milk was commonly transported in large open cans. A milkman would scoop or pour it into whatever container a household provided, often without refrigeration or proper sanitation. This exposed the milk to dirt, bacteria, and spoilage, making it unsafe, especially for children.
In 1878, the New York Dairy Company, led by Alexander Campbell, introduced home delivery of milk in sealed, sterilized glass bottles. Each bottle was filled at the dairy, closed with waxed paper, and delivered directly to homes, reducing handling and contamination.
National Milk Day highlights the move toward safer milk handling and delivery, as well as milk’s role in everyday diets and the dairy farmers who make its production possible.
🥛 Observed in January, this U.S.-specific day is separate from the internationally recognized World Milk Day on June 1.
When Is National Milk Day Celebrated?
National Milk Day is observed annually on January 11 in the United States, marking the 1878 introduction of sealed, sterilized milk delivery. The table below shows the upcoming dates for National Milk Day in the years ahead.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | January 11, Sunday |
| 2027 | January 11, Monday |
| 2028 | January 11, Tuesday |
| 2029 | January 11, Thursday |
| 2030 | January 11, Friday |
The Power of Milk in Nutrition
Milk provides a concentrated mix of nutrients that support daily dietary needs. One cup contains about 8 grams of protein and supplies close to one-third of the recommended daily intake of calcium.
Because of this balance of protein, minerals, and vitamins, U.S. Department of Agriculture includes dairy as a recommended component of a balanced eating pattern. In addition to calcium, milk contributes potassium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which support bone strength, muscle function, and normal nerve activity.
Milk facts:
- Humans have consumed milk for more than 10,000 years, beginning in the Neolithic period after the domestication of animals.
- A modern dairy cow produces an average of about 6.5 gallons of milk per day, or roughly 2,400 gallons per year.
- Cow’s milk is the most widely consumed, but milk from goats, sheep, camels, and water buffalo is also an important part of traditional diets in many regions.
Ways to Celebrate National Milk Day
National Milk Day offers plenty of ways to get involved. From trying new recipes to exploring different milk alternatives, this day is about appreciating milk in all its forms. Here’s how you can celebrate:
- Try making your own milkshake or latte using a favorite flavored syrup.
- Get adventurous and taste-test different types of milk, like almond milk, oat milk, or goat’s milk.
- Support your local dairy farm! Take a visit and learn more about where your milk comes from.
