The term 'ITEM IN THE DAIRY CASE' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: OLEO (4 letters) and HALFANDHALF (11 letters). OLEO is a shortened form of the word oleomargarine, which is a butter substitute made from vegetable oils. Half-and-half is a dairy product that is a combination of equal parts whole milk and light cream. Both of these items are commonly found in the dairy case of most grocery stores.