A proposed law would allow the sale of raw milk at New Jersey farms.
To the editor:
New Jersey is one of only eight states that continues to completely block local distribution of fresh unprocessed milk, commonly referred to as raw milk.
Fresh unprocessed milk differs from commodity raw milk in that it is carefully produced with the understanding that people will be drinking it without undergoing pasteurization.
The raw milk revolution is part of a renaissance of demand for local fresh foods of exceptional quality sweeping across our nation. It is only a matter of time before New Jersey decides to join with other states in allowing local farmers and consumers to enjoy this same freedom.
The Garden State is blessed with good soils, a favorable climate for growing forage, and talented dairy farmers.
How N.J. raw milk sales would affect region
The current prohibition against sales continues a policy that results in an annual loss of $95 million in revenue for New Jersey farmers.
Surveys have shown that the number one reason people want to drink raw milk is taste. Other reasons include a compelling body of new science from Europe showing that drinking unpasteurized milk offers protection from allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections.
Unfortunately, people in New Jersey must pass up local farms with their weekly drive to other states to purchase fresh unprocessed milk.
For the above reasons, and as a New Jersey Farmer and as a consumer of fresh milk, I appreciate Assemblyman John DiMaio's (R-23rd) leadership in sponsoring a bill that would allow local on farm sales of raw milk that is regulated and inspected by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.
Joseph R. Heckman
Neshanic Pastures
Ringoes