Food: milk; sale of raw milk products; allow. Amends sec. 68 of 2001 PA 266 (MCL 288.538).
Impact
The primary impact of HB 5604 is its reinforcement of pasteurization as a standard requirement for milk products intended for consumer sale. This aims to enhance food safety standards by limiting the sale of unpasteurized products, which can pose health risks. The bill sets stipulations for the processing and sale of unpasteurized milk, allowing it only under strict compliance with existing manufacturing laws. This change is expected to influence dairy farmers, processors, and retailers throughout the state, potentially affecting market practices and consumer choices regarding dairy consumption.
Summary
House Bill 5604 proposes amendments to the 2001 PA 266, known as the Grade A Milk Law of 2001. The bill focuses on the conditions under which milk and milk products can be sold in Michigan, specifically addressing pasteurized versus unpasteurized products. According to the amendments, only pasteurized milk and milk products are generally allowed to be sold to consumers and food establishments unless specific conditions regarding unpasteurized products are met. These amendments highlight the importance of pasteurization in ensuring food safety and public health, reflecting ongoing concerns regarding foodborne illnesses.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 5604 may arise from advocates for both sides of the dairy debate. Proponents of strict pasteurization laws argue that such regulations are crucial for safeguarding public health, while opponents may view the restrictions on raw milk sales as an infringement on consumer rights and a barrier to market diversity. The balance between maintaining safety standards and allowing consumer choice is likely to fuel discussions as the bill progresses through the legislative process. Additionally, critics may argue that the bill could disproportionately affect small, local dairy producers who may wish to sell raw milk directly to consumers.
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.(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.
Food: cottage food operation; certain requirements for cottage food operations and cottage food products; modify. Amends sec. 1105, 1111 & 4102 of 2000 PA 92 (MCL 289.1105 et seq.).
Food: cottage food operation; certain requirements for cottage food operations and cottage food products; modify. Amends secs. 1105, 1111 & 4102 of 2000 PA 92 (MCL 289.1105 et seq.).