Yes, raw milk sales are permitted in Montana, but only under strict state-mandated conditions. Licensed dairy farms may sell raw milk directly to consumers on-farm or at farmers’ markets, provided they comply with Montana Department of Livestock (MDOL) regulations, including weekly bacterial testing and labeling requirements. A 2026 MDOL compliance update tightened herd health protocols, requiring annual veterinary inspections for raw milk producers.
Key Regulations for Raw Milk in Montana
- Direct-to-Consumer Sales Only: Raw milk may not be sold through retail stores or distributors; transactions must occur at the farm or approved farmers’ markets.
- Licensing and Testing: Producers need an MDOL-issued raw milk license, with milk tested weekly for E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, and results submitted monthly.
- Labeling Mandates: Containers must display “RAW MILK” in bold, 12-point font, include the producer’s name/address, and warn that the product is unpasteurized.
Violations trigger immediate license suspension and potential civil penalties under Montana’s Food and Consumer Safety Act. Local health departments may inspect farms annually, with MDOL enforcing compliance through unannounced visits. Producers must also maintain herd health records and submit to quarterly MDOL audits.