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Americans aren’t drinking milk like they used to

Two major dairy processor-distributors have filed for bankruptcy protection in the past few months.

Americans aren’t drinking milk like they used to
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Elsie the Cow’s glory days may be behind her. Borden Dairy Company owns that mascot and said Sunday it was filing for bankruptcy.

The price of raw milk is going up, but grocery store prices are falling. Plus, cow’s milk is facing increasing competition from drinks made from oats, nuts, even bananas.

According to the National Milk Producers Federation, only 20% of the milk produced in the U.S. is consumed as milk, and that’s the segment that suffering. Other milk products, like cheese and yogurt, are doing better.

Borden’s bigger rival Dean Foods also got bankruptcy protection late last year. The ongoing trade war has put added strain on the dairy industry.

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