What do federal milk marketing orders not control?

Federal milk marketing orders are designed to manage and regulate different aspects of the milk marketing system, primarily focusing on the pricing structures and the distribution of milk among various classes based on its use. While they establish essential parameters regarding the pricing of milk and ensure that producers receive a minimum price based on the class of milk, they do not dictate who is allowed to sell or purchase milk.

The primary objective of federal milk marketing orders is to create fair competition and prices within the dairy industry, which involves establishing the classes of milk, quality testing standards, and minimum pricing for different uses of milk, such as fluid consumption or processing into dairy products. However, the discretion of who engages in buying or selling milk remains unaffected, as that is determined by market conditions and individual business strategies rather than federal regulation. This allows for a more open market where producers and processors can engage without imposed restrictions on their ability to enter into trade.