Is Raw Milk Legal in California?

Where Can You Buy Raw Milk in California?

Navigating state regulations in California is straightforward because the government integrated raw dairy into its commercial food inspection system.

Buy From Retail Stores or a Licensed Dairy

California raw milk laws allow properly labeled raw milk from licensed dairies to be sold in retail stores. You can also buy directly from dairies that offer farm pickup.

Check with the store or farm before visiting to confirm availability, pickup hours, and whether you need to preorder. Not every grocery store carries raw milk.

Check Local Delivery Options

Some dairies and retailers offer raw milk delivery within California. Confirm whether they serve your address, which products are available, and how orders are kept refrigerated during transport.

Arrange to receive your delivery promptly and refrigerate the milk as soon as it arrives.

Do Herdshares Bypass California Requirements?

No. California’s dairy requirements apply to raw milk distributed through shares, exchanges, trades, and giveaways as well as ordinary sales. A private cow-share agreement does not exempt a dairy from state permitting, sanitation, and milk-quality requirements.

California Raw Milk Laws: Dairy Farm Requirements

Dairy farms supplying raw milk for human consumption must hold a Market Milk Permit issued by CDFA or an approved county milk inspection service. Bottling facilities must also meet the applicable milk plant requirements.

California requires dairy livestock supplying raw milk to test negative for brucellosis and undergo annual tuberculosis testing. Farms and bottling facilities must meet state sanitation standards.

Raw milk must meet bacterial limits of no more than 15,000 bacteria per milliliter and 10 coliform bacteria per milliliter. It must be cooled and maintained at 45°F or below within the required timeframes and remain refrigerated until purchased.

Raw milk and raw dairy products must also carry California’s required warning label.

Bacterial and Microbial Limits

Every herd animal producing raw milk for public consumption must undergo regular health screenings. Livestock must test negative for brucellosis (FAC § 35601) and prove nonreactive for tuberculosis during annual veterinary examinations (FAC § 32903). Farm workers coming in contact with raw dairy must also maintain strict health standards and sanitation practices (FAC § 35892).

What to Check Before Buying

When searching for local producers, verify these key indicators:

• Ask about testing: Request recent results and ask how often the dairy tests its milk.
• Confirm the source: Ask which licensed dairy supplies the milk.
• Check the packaging: Look for sealed containers, the required warning label, and a clearly marked date.
• Confirm availability: Check stock, pickup hours, delivery areas, and preorder requirements.
• Check your preferences: Ask about milk types, feeding practices, and A2/A2 herd testing if these matter to you.
• Look for farms certified by the Raw Milk Institute (RAWMI).

Tips for Buying and Transporting Raw Milk

• Check stock before traveling: Call the store or dairy to confirm availability.
• Bring a cooler: Use ice packs to keep milk cold on the trip home.
• Check containers and dates: Choose sealed containers and follow the storage instructions on the label.
• Plan for delivery: Arrange to receive your order promptly and refrigerate it as soon as it arrives.

For refrigeration and handling tips, read our guide on how to store raw milk.

California Raw Milk FAQ

Can You Buy Raw Milk in California Grocery Stores?

Yes. California raw milk laws allow properly labeled raw milk from licensed dairies to be sold in grocery stores and other retail markets. Availability varies, so check with your local store before visiting.

Can You Get Raw Milk Delivered in California?

Delivery options vary by dairy, retailer, and location. Ask whether your address is covered, how orders are kept refrigerated, and when you need to be available to receive them.

Do Herdshares Avoid California’s Dairy Rules?

No. California’s requirements also apply to milk distributed through shares, trades, exchanges, and giveaways. A private agreement does not remove the applicable permitting, sanitation, or milk-quality requirements.

Official California Raw Milk Laws and Sources

For permitting, sanitation, labeling, and milk-quality requirements, consult these official resources:

• CDFA Raw Milk Requirements Summary
• CDFA Milk and Dairy Food Safety Branch
• CDFA Dairy Licensing and Permits

For further reading on dairy farming, traditional dairy, and food freedom, explore our Raw Milk Library.

Find Raw Milk in California

Browse our California raw milk listings to find farms and retail locations near you.

Contact the farm or store before visiting to confirm available products, pickup hours, and delivery options.

Follow Raw Milk Law Updates

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