World Milk Day is a day established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to recognize the importance of milk as a global food. It has been observed on June 1 each year since 2001. The day is intended to provide an opportunity to bring attention to activities that are connected with the dairy sector. World Milk Day is celebrated this year on Thursday, June 1. This year’s theme will focus on showcasing how dairy is reducing its environmental footprint, while also providing nutritious foods and livelihoods. It is a day established to recognize the importance of milk and dairy products, which provide nutrition to 6 billion consumers and support 1 billion livelihoods globally. We say ‘Cheers’ to the parents who make sure there’s always a carton in the fridge, to the hard-working dairy farmers, to the organizations who provide dairy supplements to help tackle famine and malnutrition, to the huge network of people who help us to enjoy milk. As we share our love for milk, we connect with others and invite them to join the celebration that the goodness represents. It allows us to share the stories about all the goodness of milk and all the people who produce it. It offers a simple, natural way to recognize the people who matter most to us — in our communities, schools and homes. Use the hashtag #WorldMilkDay & #EnjoyDairyon social media.

Try the following recipe courtesy of the Dairy Alliance. For more information on Food for Thought programs, check us out online or email jennifer.brown@ncsu.edu

One-Pot Creamy Veggie Pasta

– serves 4

2 ½ cup vegetable stock

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 cup milk

1 Tbsp minced garlic

1 Tbsp sea salt

1 Tbsp Italian seasoning blend

½ tsp pepper

2 Tbsp butter

12 oz linguine pasta

1 dry pint cherry tomatoes, halved

1 bunch red kale leaves, torn

1 (8oz) package sliced baby bella mushrooms

1 cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided

In large shallow straight-sided pan, such as cast iron 3.5 or 4-quart, place water, cream, milk and seasoning. Stir until well combined. Add butter, pasta and veggies, ensuring pasta is completely covered by liquid. Bring to a boil and cook until the pasta is al dente and liquid has nearly evaporated, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in half the parmesan cheese. Divide pasta into serving bowls and top with remaining cheese. Serve immediately.