Upon whose approval is the federal milk marketing order based?

The federal milk marketing order is based on the approval of milk producers. This system is designed to ensure that dairy farmers receive fair prices for their milk while maintaining a stable supply for consumers. The process involves producers submitting a proposal for the milk pricing structure and market conditions to the appropriate federal authority, typically the USDA.

Milk producers have a significant role because they are the ones directly affected by pricing and marketing policies. Their approval ensures that the order reflects the realities of the dairy market and supports their economic viability. This mechanism also aims to protect small farmers and stabilize the dairy industry, ensuring that they can remain competitive in the market.

While state officials, dairy cooperatives, and consumers play important roles in the dairy supply chain, the approval decision for the federal milk marketing order ultimately rests with the farmers who produce the milk.