Maryland enacts strict testing requirements for raw milk safety

On February 12, 2025, Maryland lawmakers introduced House Bill 1449, a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the safety and quality standards for raw milk production and dairy farm operations. The bill seeks to address critical public health concerns by implementing stricter testing and monitoring requirements for raw milk, as well as establishing guidelines for water supply systems on dairy farms.

Key provisions of House Bill 1449 include mandates for permit holders to conduct bi-monthly testing of raw milk to ensure compliance with bacterial, coliform, and somatic cell count limits. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the bacterial count must not exceed 20,000 per milliliter, while coliform levels must remain below 10 per milliliter. Additionally, the somatic cell count thresholds are set at 750,000 per milliliter for cow's milk and 1,500,000 for goat's milk. The legislation also requires that raw milk be cooled to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less within two hours of milking, with subsequent blend temperatures not exceeding 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another significant aspect of the bill is the requirement for dairy farms to install backflow prevention devices on plate heat exchangers or tubular coolers, ensuring the integrity of water supply systems. Permit holders are also mandated to retain records of testing for at least one year and make them available for inspection by the Secretary of Agriculture upon request.

The introduction of House Bill 1449 has sparked discussions among stakeholders in the dairy industry, with some expressing concerns about the potential economic impact on small dairy farms. Critics argue that the increased testing frequency and regulatory requirements could impose financial burdens, particularly on smaller operations that may struggle to meet the new standards. Supporters, however, emphasize the importance of safeguarding public health and maintaining high-quality dairy products.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, experts predict that its implications could extend beyond the dairy sector, potentially influencing broader agricultural practices and food safety regulations in Maryland. The outcome of House Bill 1449 will likely be closely monitored by both advocates for food safety and those concerned about the economic viability of local dairy farms. The next steps will involve committee reviews and potential amendments as lawmakers weigh the balance between public health and industry sustainability.