In 1987, which agency banned interstate sale/distribution of raw milk?

• A. USDA
• B. EPA
• C. FDA
• D. CDC

Answer: (C)

Regulatory control of foods that move across state lines is the main idea here. The agency that governs interstate dairy products, including milk, is the FDA. In 1987 the FDA issued a rule banning the interstate sale and distribution of raw (unpasteurized) milk for human consumption, because evidence showed significant safety risks from pathogens in raw milk and pasteurization greatly reduces those risks. The FDA’s authority over interstate commerce in dairy products is why this ban came from that agency.

The other agencies don’t perform this specific regulatory role. USDA handles many dairy and meat-related standards within states and for some products, but the nationwide ban on shipping raw milk across state lines is a function of FDA regulation of interstate dairy safety. CDC monitors disease outbreaks but does not regulate interstate sales. EPA focuses on environmental issues and is not involved in regulating food commerce.