Is Raw Milk Sales Legal in Tennessee? (2026)
No — Raw Milk Sales are illegal in Tennessee as of 2026.
Quick Answer
The retail sale of unpasteurized (raw) milk for human consumption is illegal in Tennessee. Consumers may not legally possess raw milk for human consumption except through prohibited herd share agreements or as pet milk with proper labeling.
What the Law Says
The retail sale of unpasteurized (raw) milk for human consumption is illegal in Tennessee. Consumers may legally access raw fluid milk by purchasing a share in a cow (herd share) or by purchasing it as pet milk with appropriate labeling.
— Tennessee Code Annotated § 53-3-112
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Personal Consumption | Possession of raw milk for human consumption is illegal except as pet milk with appropriate labeling. |
| Retail & Farm Sale | Sale of raw milk for human consumption is illegal; sale as pet milk with proper labeling is allowed. |
| Penalties | Violations of raw milk sale laws can result in Class C misdemeanor charges and fines under Tenn. Code Ann. § 53-3-112. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant changes to the ban in recent years.
Enforcement Reality
Tennessee has a strict ban on raw milk sales for human consumption. The state has taken legal action against those who violate the ban.
A common mistake is believing that herd share agreements are legal in Tennessee. They are not recognized by the state.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Tennessee. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Raw Milk Sales are illegal in Tennessee. 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.
Tennessee 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. Tennessee 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.
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