Is it legal to sell raw milk in the US?

The Legal Landscape of Raw Milk Sales in the U.S.
The sale of raw milk in the United States is a complex issue, governed by a patchwork of state and federal regulations. While the federal government prohibits the interstate sale of raw milk, many states have adopted their own laws that allow for its sale under specific conditions.
Federal Regulations
At the federal level, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strictly bans the interstate sale or distribution of raw milk. This regulation is rooted in concerns over public health, as raw milk can harbor harmful bacteria that pose serious health risks. According to federal regulations, all milk sold across state lines must be pasteurized and meet the standards set forth in the U.S. Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. This means that while raw milk can be produced and consumed within a state, it cannot be transported across state lines for sale.
State Laws
The situation varies significantly from state to state. Nearly 30 states allow the sale of unpasteurized milk, but the methods of sale differ widely. Some states permit raw milk to be sold in retail stores, while others restrict sales to on-farm purchases or cow-sharing arrangements, where consumers buy a share of a cow and receive a portion of the milk .
For instance, states like California and Pennsylvania have relatively permissive laws regarding raw milk sales, allowing it to be sold in stores, while others may only allow it to be sold directly from farms. In some states, raw milk sales are heavily regulated, requiring specific labeling and health warnings to inform consumers of the potential risks associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy products.
Public Health Concerns
The debate over raw milk is not just legal; it is also deeply rooted in public health discussions. Advocates for raw milk argue that it offers health benefits and supports local farming, while opponents highlight the risks of bacterial infections, such as E. coli and Salmonella, which can lead to severe illness. The FDA and various health organizations continue to warn against the consumption of raw milk, emphasizing that pasteurization is a critical process that significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is legal to sell raw milk in many states, the regulations governing its sale are diverse and often restrictive. Consumers interested in purchasing raw milk should be aware of their state’s specific laws and the associated health risks. As the conversation around raw milk continues, it remains a contentious topic balancing consumer choice, public health, and agricultural practices.

Is raw milk USDA approved?

Mar 18, 2024. Knowledge
Raw milk from a cow must be pasteurized to be safe. Pasteurization destroys all disease-producing organisms that may be present, making milk safe to drink. For more information contact the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 888-723-3366 or visit the FDA website.

What states can legally sell raw milk?

States Where Raw Milk is Legal in Retail Outlets
The least restrictive of rules to obtain raw milk, you can readily find raw milk in the refrigerators of retail stores in the following states: California, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, and Washington.

Is it illegal to transport raw milk?

In California, Arizona and Nevada, it is legal to sell and distribute unpasteurized dairy products for human consumption. The challenge also involves raw milk producers from Iowa, Illinois, the Carolinas and Washington State which were impacted by the interstate ban.

Why do farmers sell raw milk?

One factor is the growing interest in natural and unprocessed foods, with some consumers believing that raw milk contains more nutrients and beneficial bacteria than pasteurized milk. Additionally, some people prefer the taste of raw milk or seek out locally produced foods for environmental or ethical reasons.

Is Florida allowed to sell raw milk?

Is raw milk legal in Florida? It is not illegal to drink raw milk in Florida or any other state in the U.S., but it is illegal here for anyone to sell anything besides Grade A pasteurized milk and milk products for human consumption, according to Florida Statute 502.091(1).

How long does raw milk last?

Fresh raw milk contains a full range of B and C vitamins which are destroyed by heat treatment (pasteurisation) and have a shelf life of about 7-10 days before the concentration starts falling. The calcium in raw milk is fully soluble and digestible and is one of the best sources for humans.

Do you need a license to sell raw milk?

California — Retail sales of raw milk are legal as well as sales of raw butter, cream, and kefir; a license is required. See all reports.

Do grocery stores sell raw milk?

Raw milk sales are legal in 39 out of 50 states, however many states only allow raw milk sales on farms, not in retail stores. If you don’t have access to a local farm or other supply of raw milk, it is still better to buy pasteurized milk from a local dairy than a major brand.

Do any supermarkets sell raw milk?

By law, only the farmer himself can sell raw milk, so shops, supermarkets etc cannot sell it.

Why do people drink raw milk?

Some people think raw milk tastes better than milk that has been pasteurized. Among the health claims surrounding raw milk are that it can cure lactose intolerance, treat allergies, and support gut health.