The same dairy operation expressed concern that it would be difficult to derive any economic benefit from producing milk that exceeds Grade A milk standards if it cannot express on its product labeling that the milk is somehow above average. The Department responds that a milk producer remains free to put accurate, nonmisleading statements as to milk composition and testing on its milk container labeling. Another dairy operation offered its support for the elimination of Grade AA milk standards. The House Committee asked whether the Department believes it has fully pursued the alternative of amending the Grade A PMO to allow all participating states the option of voluntary Grade AA standards for milk. The Department responds that it has pursued this possibility and that the attainment of this revision to the Grade A PMO is not likely to occur in the foreseeable future.
Milk produced in accordance with Grade A standards is safe.
The milk processor has a direct financial interest in producing milk that is of good taste and keeping quality. If a milk processor believes there is a benefit to be derived from testing milk more often than is called for under the Grade A PMO, it remains free to do so. It may not designate this milk Grade AA, though. When all factors are considered, we do acknowledge that the adverse impact of failing to repeal Grade AA standards far outweighs our reservations expressed herein. . The amendments will impose no costs and have no fiscal impact upon the Commonwealth.