Approximately what percentage of the total annual milk supply in the U.S. is used to make butter?

Approximately 18 percent of the total annual milk supply in the U.S. is used to make butter. This figure reflects the significant role butter plays in the dairy industry, given its popularity as a staple cooking and baking ingredient. The production of butter requires a substantial amount of milk because it is made from the fat that is separated from cream, which in turn, is derived from milk.

This percentage can fluctuate slightly depending on annual production levels and consumer demand for various dairy products, but 18 percent has been a widely accepted estimate for many years. Understanding this percentage helps illustrate the importance of butter production within the broader context of dairy manufacturing and the consumption patterns of consumers in the U.S.