Protecting Public Health Is Serious Business

Emily Montgomery
Proprietor, Calkins Creamery

I read the May 3 front page story, Raw Milk Comes to Head on Cumberland County Farm, and felt compelled to write in support of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA).

Like Mr. Nolt, I choose to sell aged raw milk cheese to the public. Unlike Mr. Nolt, I choose to work with PDA, securing a dairy manufacturing permit that allows me to sell my cheese on the farm and in grocery stores, restaurants and farmer’s markets. With my permit, I submit to routine inspections, microbiological testing and agree to correct any problems found by the inspector in my cheese plant. To me, protecting public health is serious business; I want to be able to assure my customers that I take every step necessary, in accordance with the law, to deliver a safe, quality cheese.

I am grateful that I live in Pennsylvania, a state that gives farmers the opportunity to sell raw milk. As Lancaster Farming readers know, many of our neighboring states can’t sell raw milk, giving Pennsylvania farmers a distinct competitive advantage in the market. With the spotlight shining on raw milk, in a negative light, I’m hoping that a few farmers will not jeopardize the growing niche market for everyone.

Editor’s note: Emily Montgomery is the proprietor of Calkins Creamery in Honesdale, Pa.