Access is very high, often including farmers markets, home delivery, or very simple direct-to-consumer farm sales without complex contracts. (Expanded access for small farms under 10 animals)
Iowa recently underwent a massive shift in its dairy landscape, moving from a strict ban to a more neighborly approach that favors small family farms. Today, the Hawkeye State allows direct-to-consumer sales, provided the farm stays small and stays personal.
The Legal Pathways in Iowa
On-Farm Sales & Direct Delivery
What this means for you: You can legally purchase raw milk and raw milk products directly from a producer at their farm or through a private delivery arrangement (Iowa Code § 195.5).
Under the current Iowa Raw Milk Laws, a “raw milk dairy” is defined as an operation with 10 or fewer dairy animals. These small-scale producers can sell raw milk, raw cream, and even raw milk yogurt or kefir directly to the final consumer. However, you won’t find these products in a grocery store or at a farmers market; the law strictly limits sales to direct transactions between the farmer and the consumer (Iowa Code § 192.103).
The Ownership Route: Herd Shares
What this means for you: While direct sales are now legal, some farms may still operate via herd shares to manage their community of drinkers (Iowa Code § 195.1).
Before the legislative change, herd shares were the primary “gray area” for Iowans. While the new law provides a clear path for direct sales, the concept of “ownership” remains a popular way for consumers to feel connected to the specific animals providing their nourishment.
Pet Food: The Secondary Option
What this means for you: Raw milk can also be distributed as animal feed if it is clearly labeled and follows commercial feed licensing (Iowa Code § 198).
While the primary focus for most Iowans is now the direct-to-human consumption pathway, the pet food route remains a secondary legal avenue for producers who may not meet the specific “10-animal” limit required for human-grade raw milk sales.
Safety & Standards: What to Look For
Iowa law requires several safety hurdles to ensure the milk you bring home is clean and healthy.
“A raw milk producer shall conduct a test of each dairy animal… to determine the coliform count and standard plate count… The coliform count cannot exceed ten colony forming units per milliliter.” (Iowa Code § 195.6)
Findingrawmilk.com Quality Checklist:
- [Lab Tested]: Ensure the farmer is conducting their mandatory monthly bacteria tests.
- [A2/A2]: Many Iowa producers favor Jersey or Guernsey cows for their specific protein profiles.
- [RAWMI Listed]: Look for farmers who go beyond the state minimums by joining the Raw Milk Institute.
Important Consumer Tips for Iowa Residents
- Pack a Cooler: Iowa law requires raw milk to be stored at 45°F or lower (Iowa Code § 195.7). Bringing your own cooler with ice packs ensures the “cold chain” isn’t broken on your drive home.
- Check the Date: Producers are required to sell milk within seven days of collection. Always check the “collected on” date on the label.
- Ask for Records: You have the legal right to request the health records of the animals and the most recent bacteria test results from the producer.
Official Government Resources
- Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS): (https://iowaagriculture.gov/dairy-products-control-bureau)
- Iowa Legislature – Chapter 195: (https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/195.pdf)
Iowa Raw Milk FAQ
Can I buy raw milk at the Des Moines Farmers Market?
No. Iowa Raw Milk Laws strictly prohibit the sale of raw milk at farmers markets or retail stores. You must buy it directly from the farm or through a delivery from the farmer.
Is there a limit on how much I can buy?
No. As long as you are the final consumer (buying for yourself or your household), there is no statutory limit on the volume of milk you can purchase.
Does the milk have to be labeled?
Yes. All containers must carry a specific label stating that the product is not subject to state inspection or pasteurization.