Dairy Packaging Solutions | Dairy Farmers of America

Food and beverage packaging solutions

At DFA, we don’t just package — we partner. Packaging is a crucial element to any product lineup, and we have the expertise to help with every step of a product's journey from initial concept to final product, and various levels in between. Our expertise in dairy ensures every package delivers not just what’s expected, but what’s exceptional, trusted by top food companies and food manufacturers for our quality, consistency, and service.

Advanced technologies and processes available

Extended shelf-life packaging

Through our extended shelf-life (ESL) production technology, we deliver products that stay fresh and taste great — long after they leave the production line. Our capabilities lengthen the shelf life of fresh milk or other dairy-based beverages (65–90 days before opening and with refrigeration) and maintain a consistent flavor profile.

Benefits of ESL:

Longer shelf life translates to fewer deliveries and enables shipping over greater distances
Expanded distribution and marketing results in increased sales
Fewer out-of-stocks due to longer shelf life
Increased customer satisfaction and competitive advantages
Paper and plastic ESL products as well as bulk bag capabilities

Aseptic packaging

Through our aseptic processing and packaging technology, we provide shelf-stable milk and other dairy-based beverages that can be stored unopened and without refrigeration for 12–15 months, while maintaining a delicious flavor and high quality.

Benefits of aseptic:

Longer shelf life
No refrigeration required
Broader distribution potential
On-the-go ready, meeting modern consumer expectations for convenience

Retort technology and packaging

With advanced retort technology capabilities, we make shelf-stable consumer products packaged in glass, aluminum, or steel containers. Through retort packaging, food is filled into the container, sealed, heated to high temperatures, and then cooled to make the product shelf-stable without refrigeration.

Benefits of retort:

Longer shelf life
Broader distribution potential
Meets modern consumer expectations for convenience and trust

The benefits of our packaging

Safety and quality

DFA has modern manufacturing operations across the nation that follow strict safety protocols. Our advanced technologies allow us to deliver safe, sterile products without compromising on quality, taste, or nutrition.

Improved efficiency

DFA has the ability to offer efficiencies at scale for businesses in need of co-packing solutions.

Fresh for longer

Through our advanced sterilization and packaging processes, our capabilities can extend the shelf life of dairy and dairy-based products — adding convenience.