Table of Contents Introduction This article examines the role of Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMOs) in protecting farmers and introduces the idea of potential unintended consequences that could arise if these orders were voted out. FMMOs are rules and regulations administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that establish provisions dairy processors/handlers must […]

The Federal Milk Marketing Order system plays a critical role in promoting orderly marketing conditions within the U.S. dairy industry. A key feature of this system is the producer approval process, or referendum, which allows dairy producers to vote on changes or amendments to FMMOs.

In August and September 2024, global feed prices experienced a downward trend, driven by improved production conditions and enhanced market competitiveness. This report details the recent changes in feed prices, explores their underlying causes, and provides forecasts based on the discussion at the 2024 IFCN Dairy Researchers Meeting.

Prices have remained stable and are expected to continue this trend into the fall and the rest of the year. Butter prices, along with slightly constrained milk supplies, have contributed to supporting farm-level prices. Although demand remains steady but unremarkable both domestically and internationally, it continues to absorb market supply. However, any decline in demand or increase in milk supply could exert downward pressure on prices as we move into the early part of 2025.

Numerous supply constraints and varying demand factors currently shape the industry. Milk production, feed prices, geopolitical developments, and environmental conditions are the major factors influencing milk prices during the first quarter of 2024.

Increased efficiency at the farm level has muted the milk supply response as traditionally measured by cow numbers. We have seen milk supplies slowly tighten through the first half of 2024 and might be seeing signs of tightening supplies at the processor level.

The U.S. dairy market is potentially at a turning point, marked by reduced culling, stable cheese inventories, and rising butter stocks. Improved milk prices and strong export performance offer some optimism.

This update aims to provide stakeholders with a comprehensive overview of the current market conditions, facilitating informed decision-making in the dairy sector.

This presentation given for Hoard’s Dairyman provides an overview of dairy markets, examining recent trends and future directions dairy demand and pricing could go.

The House of Representatives cast votes on the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act (House Resolution 1147) . Whereas, the bill revised requirements for milk distribution under the National School Lunch Program, managed by the Department of Agriculture (USDA).

There is typically a 3-5% increase in milk and butter sales in the United States during the fall months, compared to the summer period. This rise is largely attributed to the holiday season, with November and December witnessing a significant surge in dairy product purchases.

Understanding the proposals is critical for informed participation in the hearing process, effective advocacy, and the strategic planning of various stakeholders in the U.S. dairy industry. Testimony is in progress by subject area, in the following order proposal wise classified on the basis of 

The farm bill is an omnibus, multiyear law that governs an array of agricultural and food programs. It provides an opportunity for policymakers to comprehensively and periodically address agricultural and food issues. In addition to developing and enacting farm legislation, Congress is involved in overseeing its implementation.

Dairy markets are facing downward price pressures from increased milk production, slower demand, and competition in export markets.

Federal Milk Marketing Orders play a vital role in shaping the dairy industry, and the mechanisms through which these orders are amended and refined are governed by a complex framework of administrative actions. This article delves into the intricacies of Administrative Action Governing Federal Order Hearings, a process rooted in 5 U.S.C. 556 and 5 U.S.C. 557, and Ex Parte Communication.