I don’t know about you, but I have been getting increasingly nervous about reports indicating that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reduced inspections and suspended testing for dairy products due to staffing reductions.

 When I first heard the news, I immediately questioned the safety of dairy products available at my local grocery store – so I reached out to Tami Kerr, Executive Director of the Oregon Dairy Farmers Association (ODFA), to better understand if and how local dairy is being tested – and if the FDA no longer tests milk, who does?  

I’m relieved to report Kerr has reassured me Oregon’s dairy products testing remains reliable and everyone’s favorite Oregon dairy products are safe to consume.

Robust State-Level Oversight

Kerr highlighted that Oregon’s dairy industry adheres to rigorous testing protocols administered by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA). These state-level measures ensure that milk and dairy products meet stringent safety and quality standards, independent of federal inspections. “Our farmers take great pride in their work,” she noted. “They prioritize their herds’ health and wellness, feeding their cattle before feeding themselves.” This commitment contributes to Oregon’s long standing reputation for producing high-quality milk products.

 No Avian Influenza in Oregon

Concerns about avian influenza affecting dairy farms have emerged recently. Kerr confirmed that Oregon has not found any cases of bird flu on its dairy farms to date. The state’s proactive monitoring and biosecurity practices have maintained the health of its dairy herds, providing additional peace of mind for consumers. Please note, ODFA is a strong advocate of pasteurization and encourages families who want safe products to purchase pasteurized milk.

 Transparent Sourcing

To help consumers verify the origin of their dairy products, Kerr explained that all milk cartons have a code that identifies the state and plant where the milk was processed.  This transparency allows health-focused shoppers to confidently choose Oregon dairy, known for its safety and quality. 

 Advocating for Continued Excellence

Kerr is scheduled to attend a dairy summit in Washington, D.C., next week. While there, she and an Oregon dairy farmer will meet with Oregon’s Congressional delegation to address proposed reductions in dairy research funding. Such research is vital for advancing safety practices and sustainability in the industry. The Oregon Dairy Farmers Association advocacy reflects its dedication to upholding consumer trust and maintaining Oregon’s leadership in dairy quality.

 Oregon Pride 

I believe there is no better time to support local farmers and family owned businesses.

The state’s stringent dairy testing, continued absence of avian influenza, transparent labeling, and longtime commitment to quality make it easier than ever to support Oregon’s dairy farmers.

By choosing local, you’re not only enjoying high-quality products but also sustaining family-owned farms.

Milk and dairy products from Lochmead, Umpqua Dairy, Andersen’s, Safeway/Albertson’s, Tillamook, Darigold, Rogue, Face Rock, Organic Valley, and Eberhard’s are from family-owned dairy farms in Oregon that prioritize animal welfare, environmental stewardship and strong community connections.

One topic we didn’t discuss is pasteurization, this CDC link has a lot of important information: Raw Milk | Food Safety | CDC

Note: Consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes, particularly if you have specific health concerns