California Dairies Inc. (CDI)
By California Dairies Inc.
Last reviewed: December 2025
Complete guide to California Dairies Inc., California's largest dairy cooperative with $4.5B revenue. Learn about butter, powder, and member services in the...
California Dairies Inc. (CDI) is California's largest dairy cooperative, marketing milk for member-owners in the nation's leading dairy state. With approximately $4.5 billion in annual revenue, CDI plays a critical role in California's dairy economy.
California produces over 40 billion pounds of milk annually—more than any other state. CDI provides market access for members, collecting and processing milk at company-owned manufacturing facilities. Primary products include butter, milk powder (nonfat dry milk), and fluid milk.
Export capability is significant. California's dairy industry relies heavily on international markets, and CDI's powder production serves global demand. The cooperative works with U.S. Dairy Export Council and international buyers to move California dairy worldwide.
Member services address California-specific challenges. Environmental compliance support helps farms navigate the state's stringent regulations. Market information keeps members informed on pricing trends. Business services support farm success.
Governance follows cooperative principles with member-elected leadership. California's large-scale dairy industry means CDI members often operate 1,000+ cow dairies—the cooperative's services reflect this scale.
Based in Visalia, California, CDI operates processing plants throughout the Central Valley. Membership is open to California dairy producers meeting quality and volume standards.
Key Features
- Milk Marketing: California milk collection and marketing. Processing destination. Competitive pay prices.
- Butter Manufacturing: Major butter producer. Challenge Butter brand. Premium and commodity markets.
- Powder Production: Nonfat dry milk. Export capability. Global market access.
- Fluid Milk: Fluid milk processing and marketing. California retail market.
- Cooperative Structure: Member-owned California cooperative. Democratic governance. Patronage returns.
- Export Focus: International market capability. USDEC partnership. Global dairy connections.
Advanced Features
- Environmental Compliance Support: Navigating California regulations. Air and water quality. Sustainability.
- Market Information: Pricing trends. Industry data. Market intelligence.
- Challenge Butter Brand: Retail butter brand. Consumer recognition. Value-add marketing.
- Member Programs: Business services. Risk management. Producer support.
- Processing Capacity: Multiple manufacturing plants. Volume capability. Diversified output.
- Quality Programs: Premium quality incentives. Food safety. Traceability.
Ideal For
Farm Types: California dairy farms, Large-scale commercial operations
Competitive Advantages
What sets California Dairies Inc. (CDI) apart from alternatives:
- $4.5 billion revenue—California's largest dairy co-op
- Serves #1 U.S. dairy state (California)
- Strong butter and powder manufacturing
- Export capability and global reach
- Environmental compliance expertise
- Challenge Butter retail brand
- Scale matches California's large dairies
- Central Valley processing infrastructure
- Cooperative ownership returns
- California industry knowledge
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for California Dairies Inc. (CDI):
California market pricing plus component and quality premiums. Total premiums $0.50-2.50/cwt.
Pricing Model: Cooperative milk marketing in California
Prices verified Q1 2024. Largest dairy cooperative in California.
Pros & Considerations
- Leading California dairy cooperative
- Significant processing capacity
- Member equity and governance
- Diversified market outlets
- Quality programs
- California membership focus
- Large cooperative structure
- Pricing follows market orders
- Membership requirements
Implementation & Setup
How to implement California Dairies Inc. (CDI) on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: Membership process for California producers. Contact CDI for application process and timeline.
Training & Support
Training and support options available for California Dairies Inc. (CDI):
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating California Dairies Inc. (CDI):
- Am I a California dairy producer?
- Does CDI serve my area?
- Can I meet volume and quality standards?
- Would cooperative marketing benefit my operation?
- Do I need environmental compliance support?