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HF 537

Registered small farm producers permitted to sell fluid raw milk and fluid raw milk products to consumers under certain circumstances.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Bliss

Minnesota bill permits small farms to sell raw milk directly to consumers under regulatory conditions, balancing consumer access against food safety oversight.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Agriculture Finance and Policy
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Bill Summary · HF 537

Legislative bill overview

HF 537 allows registered small farm producers in Minnesota to directly sell fluid raw milk and raw milk products to consumers under specified conditions. The bill establishes a regulatory framework for this direct-to-consumer sales model rather than requiring all raw milk sales through licensed dairy processors.

Why is this important

Raw milk sales are heavily restricted in many states due to food safety concerns, but some consumers actively seek raw milk for perceived health benefits. This bill represents a policy shift that could expand consumer choice while potentially creating new food safety oversight requirements for small producers engaging in direct sales.

Potential points of contention

  • Food safety concerns: Raw milk can harbor pathogens like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella; opponents worry about illness outbreaks, particularly among vulnerable populations (children, elderly, immunocompromised individuals)
  • Regulatory burden and enforcement: The bill requires registration and "certain circumstances" compliance, but details on inspection frequency, testing requirements, and enforcement mechanisms are unclear from the title alone
  • Market competition and fairness: Licensed dairy operations face significant compliance costs; critics may argue this creates unequal competitive conditions favoring small direct-sale producers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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