Why is dairy farming typically located near urban areas in developed countries?

• A. It is closer to water supplies
• B. Dairy products are perishable and require short transport times to markets, reducing spoilage and costs
• C. It requires high altitude
• D. It uses outdated equipment

Answer: (B)

Dairy farming near urban areas is driven by the fact that dairy products are highly perishable and must reach markets quickly to stay fresh. Milk and many dairy items spoil if they’re not cooled and transported promptly, so locating farms close to cities minimizes transit time, reduces spoilage, and lowers distribution costs. Modern developed-country systems rely on efficient cold-chain logistics—refrigerated farms, processing facilities, and truck networks—so milk can be collected daily and delivered to urban consumers while still fresh. Water access and altitude aren’t the primary forces shaping location, and while equipment quality matters, it doesn’t explain why dairies cluster near cities.