Yes, raw milk sales are legal in Arizona with strict licensing and labeling requirements enforced by the Arizona Department of Agriculture (ADA). Retail sales are permitted only through licensed dairies or retail stores, with mandatory pasteurization warnings and herd health testing protocols. The ADA’s 2024 regulatory updates tightened testing frequencies to align with FDA’s Grade “A” Pasteurized Milk Ordinance standards, effective January 2026.
Key Regulations for Raw Milk in Arizona
- Licensing Mandates: Only licensed dairy farms or retail establishments may sell raw milk. Unlicensed transactions, including cow-share agreements, are prohibited under A.R.S. § 3-208.
- Labeling Requirements: Containers must display “WARNING: This product has not been pasteurized and may contain harmful bacteria” in bold, 12-point font, per ADA Rule R3-2-402.
- Testing Protocols: Monthly bacterial and somatic cell counts are required, with quarterly herd tuberculosis and brucellosis testing. Violations trigger immediate suspension under ADA’s 2024 enforcement directive.
Arizona’s framework mirrors neighboring states like New Mexico but diverges by permitting retail sales—unlike Utah’s strict herd-share-only model. The ADA’s 2026 compliance shift reflects federal pressure to harmonize with FDA’s raw milk safety guidelines, particularly for E. coli and Listeria risks. Non-compliant dairies face fines up to $10,000 per violation, with repeat offenses leading to license revocation. Consumers should verify ADA-issued permits before purchase, as unlicensed vendors operate illegally.