For several decades, the basic policies of the dairy industries in developed countries, especially Canada and the Member States of the European Community, have encouraged the production of fat and have tended to neglect that of protein and minerals. This not only opposes the general well-being and the best interests of consumers but also distorts world trade. Much could be done by health professionals to persuade the milk producers, consumers and governments that support for dairy farming should be modified so that less fat and more protein are produced and consumed.