Northwest Dairy Association’s (NDA) marketing and processing subsidiary Darigold is investing $67m in its Boise, Idaho facility, US, this year to expand production of its FIT milk.

The company’s latest move comes in response to the growth of FIT in sales and distribution over the past six months.

Darigold notes that FIT has 75% more protein and 40% less sugar compared to traditional milk. It is also lactose-free.

Recently, the company broadened the FIT product line to include whole milk and offering 2% white and 2% chocolate milk.

Darigold senior vice-president Duane Naluai said: “FIT was inspired by our farmer-owners’ desire to revitalize fluid milk. They, more than anyone, know Darigold must provide consumers with new and relevant types of milk that preserve the wholesome and nutritious foundation which makes milk great in the first place.

“We will deliver a better package for both our consumers and channel partners.”

With the latest investment in Boise, which includes a capacity expansion, Darigold will expand FIT and also make it a platform to re-launch its other classic beverages.

Darigold’s investment also includes modern aseptic packaging to produce FIT as a shelf-stable product that can be shipped and stored without the need for refrigeration.

The project relates to water use, plastic, corrugated material and overall energy use, expected to reduce the company’s environmental footprint.

Darigold is expecting the first production run using the shelf-stable packaging this year.

The FIT expansion will enable Darigold’s local farmer-owners to invest in their future and better serve consumers.

Last February, Darigold expanded its milk portfolio in the US with the launch of FIT that offers a similar taste to regular milk.