Grade A Dairy Program
Grade A Dairy Program Services
The dairy industry has a large impact on North Carolina’s economy and culture. The North Carolina
Dairy Laws and the regulations used to administer the various programs are structured to ensure the
citizens of North Carolina that dairy products are produced, transported, and sold under clean and
sanitary conditions. The laws allow for the setting of standards and purity for products and for licenses,
fees, and examinations where appropriate.
Below you will find information, rules, and regulations related to the Grade A Dairy Program. You will
also find permitting information, milk hauler/tester butterfat license, and program contacts.
What products are regulated by the Grade A Dairy Program?
• Raw milk produced by permitted Grade A dairy farms.
• Grade A dairy finished products include fluid milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, buttermilk, kefir, and
whipped dairy toppings. These products must be produced commercially in a Grade A
permitted milk processing plant.
• Single service items that are in direct contact with Grade A dairy products. This includes
containers, caps, and closures.
• Cheese, ice cream, and additional milk products are not Grade A. These products are regulated
under the NCDA&CS Manufactured Foods Program.
Grade A Dairy – New Farm Permitting Process:
1. Read all rules related to Grade A dairy:
• N.C. Rules Governing Grade A Milk Sanitation
• The FDA Pasteurized Milk Ordinance
2. Complete the permit application:
• Application to Build or Modify a Dairy Farm
3. Submit the completed application and scale plan drawings to:
• NCDA Grade A Dairy Program
Grade A Dairy – New Dairy Plant – Finished Grade A Products Permitting Process:
1. Read all rules related to Grade A dairy:
• N.C. Rules Governing Grade A Milk Sanitation
• The FDA Pasteurized Milk Ordinance
2. Complete the permit application:
• Application to Build or Modify a Dairy Plant
3. Submit the completed application and scale plan drawings to:
• NCDA Grade A Dairy Program
Milk Hauler Sampler – Butterfat Testing License:
The Food & Drug Protection Division is responsible for the regulatory oversight of milk haulers and
testers within the State. Compliance with the North Carolina Dairy Laws requires in-part the following:
The license fee of five dollars ($5.00) for each license so granted or renewed shall be paid to the
Commissioner of Agriculture by the applicant before any license is granted. All licenses issued or
renewed expire on December 31, of each year, unless revoked.
• Butterfat Testing License Form
Rules and Regulations Related to Grade A Dairy:
• N.C. Rules Governing Grade A Milk Sanitation
• The Latest FDA Pasteurized Milk Ordinance
• FDA 21 CRF