Senate doubles limit on raw milk sales in state
The Brattleboro Reformer reports that the Senate gave final approval to a bill that will raise the limit on the number of quarts of raw, unpasteurized milk that a farmer may sell from the farm from 25 to 50 quarts a day. Currently, "state law restricts the sale of unpasteurized milk for fear that milk can become contaminated and pose a health threat if unpasteurized." Proponents of unpasteurized milk contend that raw milk "is more nutritious than pasteurized milk and can help guard against the development of allergies." According to Amy Shollenberger, director of the farm advocacy group Rural Vermont, the legislation will not allow raw milk to be sold in stores. Notably, "the decision was made after an informal agreement among advocates and officials from the Agency of Agriculture and state Health Department that they would meet informally in the coming months to try to develop a certification system" for unpasteurized milk next year.
VCF Staff
New law permits farmers to sell more raw milk
Vermont Public Radio reports that "a new law allows Vermont farmers to sell up to 50 quarts of raw milk a day, but some farmers say the demand is much greater." Raw milk buyers argue that raw milk is "more nutritious and easier to digest than pasteurized milk. But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration calls it inherently dangerous given that it can contain harmful bacteria." Notably, "22 states ban the sale of raw milk for human consumption, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits cross-border sales." Maine, however, "is one of eight states that allow the sale of raw milk at retail stores," and in New Hampshire, "farmers can sell directly to consumers, but are limited to five gallons a day unless they get licenses."