No, raw milk sales are prohibited in Illinois with no retail or farm-direct exceptions under the Illinois Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and IDPH rules. The state classifies raw milk as adulterated due to pathogen risks, aligning with FDA guidance. No pending 2026 legislation alters this stance.
Key Regulations for Raw Milk in Illinois
- Absolute Ban: 77 Ill. Adm. Code § 750.100 explicitly prohibits the sale of raw milk for human consumption, including herd-share arrangements.
- IDPH Enforcement: The Illinois Department of Public Health actively monitors dairy farms and retail outlets, issuing cease-and-desist orders for violations.
- Criminal Penalties: Violations may result in misdemeanor charges under 410 ILCS 635/10, with fines up to $1,000 per offense.
Local health departments in Cook, DuPage, and Lake Counties reinforce statewide restrictions through routine inspections and consumer advisories. While neighboring states permit limited raw milk sales, Illinois maintains a zero-tolerance policy, citing unresolved safety data from the CDC and FDA. No licensed dairy in Illinois may legally distribute raw milk, even for pet consumption.