Dairy States Debate Raw Milk Sales

By Scout Nelson

States are reconsidering their raw milk sales policies as interest grows, and avian flu reaches dairy cattle. While federal law requires pasteurization for interstate sales, states control intrastate raw milk sales.

Across the Midwest, laws vary. Some states allow raw milk only through herd share agreements. Others permit direct sales from farms to consumers. Recently, Iowa and North Dakota changed their laws to allow such sales, joining five other Midwestern states.

North Dakota’s HB 1515 allows raw milk sales on farms, by delivery, and at farmers markets. A new 2025 law extends these permissions to raw milk products. The law exempts producers from labeling and testing but also removes liability protections.

Iowa’s SF 315 permits on-farm sales by small producers with fewer than 10 dairy animals. Requirements include veterinary exams, cold storage, monthly pathogen tests, and clear labeling. Online orders are not allowed.

Minnesota is also debating change. SF 490, a new bill, would allow small dairy producers to sell raw milk at markets and events. It requires licensing, annual vet checks, and food safety training. Milk would need a label noting it is not state inspected.

Health experts like Dr. John Lucey caution that H5N1 can remain active in raw milk for weeks. “Pasteurization is enough to inactivate it,” he says. Testing alone may not prevent outbreaks due to delayed lab results.

The economic impact is also a concern. Infected cattle produce less milk, and their milk cannot be sold. The USDA has stepped in with emergency aid to offset farmer losses.

As more states revise laws, the focus remains on balancing consumer freedom with protecting public health and supporting the dairy industry stability.

Photo Credit:gettyimages-jesp62