USDA Reconsiders Timing of Class I Definition Hearing

After submitting comments on September 19 requesting more time to study milk-based drinks market issues, MIF has been informed that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) won't proceed with its emergency hearing, as originally indicated in USDA's call for proposals, regarding Dairy Farmers of America's (DFA) petition to amend the fluid milk products (Class I) definition. It is uncertain when USDA will go to a hearing, but it is unlikely to be held before January 2004.

As reported in last week's News Update, MIF asked in its comments that USDA delay action in order to give the industry time to "develop a greater knowledge base" about these new products and "understand the competitive relationship" between traditional fluid milk products and new milk-based drinks. DFA's petition to amend the Class I definition seeks to include all products "intended to be consumed in fluid form," aimed at the new milk-based drinks on the market.

"We're pleased that USDA is looking to gather more data before moving ahead with the hearing," said MIF President and CEO E. Linwood Tipton. "We're committed to helping USDA make a well-informed decision about the proven effects of these new beverages in the marketplace."

To read MIF's full comments to USDA (.pdf), click here.

Posted September 29, 2003