A bill for an act relating to raw milk, by providing for the production of raw milk at certain dairies, the manufacture of products using raw milk, and the labeling and distribution of raw milk and manufactured products, and making penalties applicable.
Impact
HF338's changes to the law are expected to provide a significant shift in how raw milk and its products are handled in Iowa. It limits the department of inspections and appeals (DIA) from regulating home food processing establishments concerning raw milk, thus allowing raw milk to be marketed more freely. Under the new provisions, raw milk can be distributed directly from the producers to consumers but cannot be sold through retail establishments like grocery stores or farmers' markets. This could encourage local producers but may raise concerns regarding the health risks associated with raw milk consumption due to its unpasteurized nature.
Summary
House File 338 (HF338) is a legislative proposal aimed at altering the production and distribution of raw milk in Iowa. The bill provides a legal framework for raw milk producers to operate their dairies, stipulating specific conditions under which they may process and market raw milk and its associated products. A notable aspect of the bill is that it establishes a definition for 'raw milk' as milk that is not pasteurized or graded, along with outlining the parameters for maintaining health standards for dairy animals. The bill underscores the requirement for producers to test their animals regularly and ensure records are maintained for transparency and accountability.
Contention
Contention surrounding HF338 primarily revolves around public health concerns. Critics argue that the promotion of raw milk can increase risks of foodborne illnesses, as raw milk is known to harbor pathogens that are typically eliminated through pasteurization. On the other hand, advocates highlight the benefits of raw milk for those who believe in its health benefits and prefer minimally processed foods. Additionally, the regulatory shift removes some oversight from the state concerning raw milk sales, raising alarms about consumer safety and enforcement of health standards.
A bill for an act relating to raw milk, by providing for the production of raw milk at certain dairies, the manufacture of products using raw milk, and the labeling and distribution of raw milk and manufactured products, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 315.)
A bill for an act relating to raw milk, by providing for the production of raw milk at certain dairies, the manufacture of products using raw milk, and the labeling and distribution of raw milk and manufactured products, and making penalties applicable. (Formerly SSB 1107.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.
Food: milk; sale of raw milk and raw milk products under the manufacturing milk law of 2001; allow. Amends sec. 136 of 2001 PA 267 (MCL 288.696) & adds sec. 70a.
To Amend The Laws Concerning Sales Of Raw Milk; To Allow Sales Of Raw Milk And Raw Milk Products At Locations Other Than The Farm Where The Raw Milk Or Raw Milk Product Was Produced; And To Declare An Emergency.
A bill for an act relating to raw milk, by providing for the production of raw milk at certain dairies, the manufacture of products using raw milk, and the labeling and distribution of raw milk and manufactured products, and making penalties applicable. (Formerly SSB 1107.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.
A bill for an act relating to raw milk, by providing for the production of raw milk at certain dairies, the manufacture of products using raw milk, and the labeling and distribution of raw milk and manufactured products, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 315.)