Is Raw Milk Sales Legal in Louisiana? (2026)
No — Raw Milk Sales are illegal in Louisiana as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Louisiana prohibits the sale of raw milk for human consumption under Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 3, Section 409. All milk sold must be pasteurized. Possession for personal use is not explicitly prohibited but sale is illegal.
What the Law Says
Louisiana legalized the on-farm sale of up to 500 gallons per month of raw cow or goat milk for human consumption, effective August 1, 2024. Sales for pet food are also permitted with proper labeling.
— Louisiana Revised Statutes - Food and Drugs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Personal Consumption | Possession for personal use is not explicitly prohibited. |
| Retail & Farm Sale | Sale of raw milk for human consumption is illegal. |
| Penalties | Violations may result in fines and enforcement actions. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant changes to the state's long-standing ban on raw milk sales.
Enforcement Reality
Louisiana has a complete ban on the sale of raw milk for human consumption. There is no evidence of widespread enforcement due to a lack of sales.
The most common mistake is believing that raw milk can be sold for animal consumption, which is also not explicitly legal.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Louisiana. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Raw Milk Sales are illegal in Louisiana. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Louisiana vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, buying raw milk is fully legal in 2 states, restricted in 26, and illegal in 22. Louisiana falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Louisiana Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Louisiana — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.