Division of Environmental Health and Sustainability

MEMORANDUM 

TO:  COLORADO DAIRY GOAT ASSOCIATIONS AND CLUBS

FROM:  DAN TRIMBERGER, MILK AND DAIRY PROGRAM MANAGER

SUBJECT: REQUIREMENTS CONCERNING THE SALE OF GOAT AND/OR GOAT MILK PRODUCTS

This Department has received numerous inquiries in recent months requesting information pertaining to the sale of goat milk products to the consuming public. Milk and dairy products and the production of raw goat milk for human consumption are regulated by this Department. Raw goat milk and/or the improper processing and handling of pasteurized goat milk products, can be a vehicle for the transmission of pathogens to humans.

The requirements for goat milk products generally fall into one of the following categories:

1) Raw milk for animal usage

2) Pasteurized Grade A Fluid Milk and Milk Products

3) Manufactured Milk Products

RAW MILK FOR ANIMAL USAGE ONLY

The production and handling of goat milk sold for animal feed does not have to meet any health regulations except for the following:

a) The product must be colored with a dye approved by this Division (blue or black).

b) The product must be labeled "Not for Human Consumption."

PASTEURIZED GRADE A FLUID MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS

All fluid milk and milk products as defined in the "Colorado Grade A Pasteurized Fluid Milk and Milk Products Regulations" must be produced and processed under these regulations and licensed by this Department. All facility construction and the equipment used for the production of raw milk and the pasteurization of milk and milk products are required to meet these regulations. Products such as skim milk, low fat milk, whole milk, yogurt and cottage cheese are part of these regulations.

MANUFACTURED MILK PRODUCTS

Manufactured milk products (which include all milk products not defined in the above fluid milk regulations, such as, soft cheeses, hard cheeses, ice cream, etc.) must meet the manufactured milk products regulations. The facilities required in the production and processing of manufactured milk products must be approved and licensed by this Department.

This information is being provided to you so that it can be shared by members of your goat organization.

If you or any member of your organization desire more detailed information or have any questions, please call 303-692-3645.