The dairy and dairy alternatives category might seem straightforward: think milk, oat milk, butter, cheese, but today’s packaging proves this category is anything but ordinary. From stunning yogurt to unexpected plant-based innovations, the category has become a playground for designers to reimagine what belongs in the refrigerator aisle.

Some brands are embracing craft with thoughtful typography and timeless forms, while others break convention with bold color, playful illustration, and narratives that challenge expectations. Sculptural bottles, unexpected materials, and fresh visual languages show how dairy, whether animal or plant-based, can feel entirely new.

We’ve rounded up past standout DIELINE Award winners and notable projects that capture the inventive, boundary-pushing spirit of the category, and don’t forget to enter your work for the upcoming 2026 Awards season. Prices increase after January 30th.