This is an evolving situation. FTCLDF will continue to monitor developments and post new information as it becomes available. FTCLDF reported on the December 6, 2024 that USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) issued and order that would apply to raw milk producers providing wholesome, raw milk for human consumption. It is now […]
USDA
USDA Announces Testing of Raw Milk
This is an evolving situation. FTCLDF will continue to monitor developments and post new information as it becomes available. On December 6, 2024, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) announced a new rule authorizing testing of raw milk for the H5N1 virus. The order specifies: “Upon request from APHIS any person responsible […]
Update on HPAI H5N1 testing of Raw Dairy
As many Farm-to-Consumer members are aware, on April 24, 2024, the USDA issued an order requiring Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 testing of dairy cattle moving in interstate commerce, or across state lines. On June 6, 2024, the FDA sent a letter to state and local health departments recommending that states implement a surveillance testing […]
U.S. Senator Introduces Legislation to Block Mandatory Use of Electronic Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) for Livestock
In an important move for independent ranchers, today U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) introduced legislation (S. 4282) aimed at preventing the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) from implementing mandatory electronic identification on livestock that moves in interstate commerce. Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund (FTCLDF) has followed this issue and has been supporting efforts […]
New USDA Mandate to Test Dairy Cattle for Avian Flu Despite No Evidence HPAI is Foodborne
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has announced that all dairy cattle must be tested for HPAI prior to moving across state lines. The USDA order requires a negative test from an approved National Animal Health Laboratory. A number of recent reports have raised concerns about highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) spreading […]