Milk controlled under federal milk marketing orders must meet what quality standard?

Milk controlled under federal milk marketing orders must meet the Grade A standard. Grade A milk is produced under stricter sanitary conditions and is intended for direct consumption. It must comply with rigorous hygiene, quality, and safety standards as established by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO).

Grade A status ensures that the milk is safe for consumers, having undergone pasteurization and meeting specified bacterial limits. This grade is crucial for commercial sales, especially since most fluid milk sold to consumers is required to be Grade A.

In contrast, Grade B milk typically is used for manufacturing purposes, such as cheese or butter, and does not meet the same level of quality standards intended for direct consumption. Organic and non-fat classifications refer to specific farming practices and milk fat content rather than the broader quality and safety standards required for federal milk marketing orders.