Wisconsin Senate Bill SB781

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/23
• Refer: 12/8/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

The sale of unpasteurized dairy products. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, SB781 would significantly impact the dairy industry within the state by expanding the legal avenues available for producers to sell their products. The bill would require strict adherence to food safety protocols, including regular health testing for harmful bacteria and health inspections of production facilities. It also introduces new training requirements for producers on the safety of raw milk. These changes aim to enhance consumer protection while providing farmers an opportunity to diversify their product offerings in response to market demand for unpasteurized milk products.

Summary

Senate Bill 781 seeks to amend existing statutes concerning the sale and distribution of unpasteurized (raw) dairy products. Under current law, the sale of unpasteurized milk and dairy products is generally prohibited unless certain licensing and quality standards are met. This bill allows licensed milk producers to sell unpasteurized dairy products directly to consumers either on-farm, through retail stores, or via delivery, under specific conditions and health standards as regulated by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).

Contention

Debate surrounding SB781 may focus on public health implications and consumer safety. Supporters argue that allowing the sale of unpasteurized dairy products can benefit local dairy farms and cater to consumer demand for raw products. However, opponents may raise concerns about foodborne illness risks associated with unpasteurized products, citing the importance of stringent health and safety checks to prevent outbreaks. This bill marks a significant shift in existing dairy sale regulations, and could engender a division among agricultural stakeholders based on differing priority placed on market access versus public health.