Raw Milk: State Legislative Updates and Challenges
Several states have recently introduced or passed legislation related to raw milk, reflecting a growing interest in unpasteurized milk despite the fact that raw milk can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E.coli, and Listeria, posing serious health risks. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) strongly advise against consuming raw milk due to these dangers and have implemented regulations to limit its sale.
Despite the long-standing position at both agencies, the new Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has been a vocal advocate for raw milk promoting its benefits and criticizing regulatory restrictions. His support has brought renewed attention to the raw milk movement, influencing legislative efforts.
Arkansas Bill HB 1048: This bill would allow the sale of raw goat milk, sheep milk, and whole milk directly to consumers at the farm, at farmer’s markets, or via delivery by the farm.
Utah Bill HB414: This bill has passed the House and is now before the Senate. This bill establishes enforcement steps for raw milk suspected in foodborne illness outbreaks, aiming to protect consumers.
