Raw Milk Production Under Fire

Raw milk producers and consumers are organizing as the controversy around the lawful sale of raw milk products continues to heat up in the media.  Jim Krahn, Executive Director of Oregon Dairy Farmers Association, announced on May 20th in the Oregonian their plans to push for a “crackdown” to strengthen regulations or eliminate sales of raw milk in Oregon all together. The very next day, May 21st, KZEI news ran a segment highlighting the possible”crackdown” initiated by the Oregon Dairy Farmers Association. Additionally, the Oregonian Editorial Board came out in support of the push to tighten restrictions on raw milk, calling it a “dangerous substance” in an opinion piece published May 22nd.

Some sectors of the dairy industry will try to control choice in the food system and potentially end alternative markets for producers, so it is necessary for raw milk producers and their supporters to speak up and engage in policy development and outreach. We must take proactive steps, including communicating with our public officials and launching educational outreach about responsible raw milk production and consumption.

As we strategize next steps, it is crucial for raw milk producers and consumers to participate in these important conversations. Please contact FoFF’s Field Director Leah Rodgers to engage on this issue and to help assure that Oregon’s family farmers can continue to have access to markets to ensure their farm business viability.