Urges FDA to prohibit labeling of non-dairy products as milk.
Impact
If enacted, AR14 could influence regulatory practices regarding the labeling of food products on a federal level, encouraging stricter enforcement of existing definitions of dairy. The resolution stresses that the FDA has a clear definition of 'milk' as a product derived from dairy animals. By urging action against the misuse of this term, the resolution aims to protect both consumer interests and the dairy industry. This could lead to greater scrutiny of how non-dairy products are marketed, potentially impacting producers and retailers of plant-based alternatives.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 14 (AR14) urges the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prohibit the labeling of non-dairy products as 'milk.' This resolution emphasizes the nutritional importance of dairy products, which provide essential vitamins and contribute to a healthy diet. The sponsors of the bill highlight a significant decline in milk consumption that has affected dairy farmers economically, noting a 40% drop in milk prices since 2014. As a result, they believe that accurate labeling is necessary to prevent misleading consumers about the nutritional value of plant-based alternatives to dairy.
Contention
The resolution raises significant points of contention regarding consumer rights and transparency in labeling. Supporters, particularly from the dairy farming community, argue that accurate labeling is essential to maintain consumer trust and protect the traditional dairy market. However, opponents may express concern that limiting the use of the term 'milk' could infringe upon the rights of manufacturers producing plant-based products. They may also argue about the importance of providing consumers with choices in the marketplace, where diverse dietary options are increasingly sought after. Overall, this issue underscores a broader debate between agricultural interests and evolving consumer preferences.
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.
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.