The United Nations has declared June 1 to be World Milk Day and milk lovers around Tasmania will be pouring themselves an extra glass of the white stuff.

Tasmanian dairy farmer Marcus Haywood made headlines last year when his nomination won Ringarooma the Legendairy title, and he said now was the time to get behind dairy.

“Like any dairy farmer, we’re proud to be playing an important part in helping Australians stay healthy,” Mr Haywood said.

“I’d love to see people all over Tasmania supporting the local dairy industry and doing something healthy for themselves by getting involved in World Milk Day.”

Dairy Australia dietitian Blake Robinson said the social media campaign complemented this year’s World Milk Day theme: Raise a Glass.

Dairy’s contribution to health, nutrition and the economic wellbeing of regional communities is recognised by the United Nations’ day, Mr Robinson said.

“Most people consume dairy simply because they love it and others love it because it’s a rich natural source of so many of the nutrients our bodies need,” he said.

“Regardless of your reason, raising a glass for World Milk Day is a great way to do something healthy for yourself while throwing your support behind our Aussie dairy farmers.”

Milk is a natural source of eight essential nutrients, including calcium for strong bones and protein for hunger busting and healthy muscles.

“Milk has been nourishing people for thousands of years and World Milk Day is a good opportunity for us to consider why this is,” Mr Robinson said.

Get involved in the Dairy Australia social media campaign on Friday by sharing your ‘milk pour’ into coffee, breakfast cereal or a glass and use the hashtags #worldmilkday and #milkpour.