Tag: Manufacturing milk

Over 90% of commercial milk produced in the United States is Grade A, meeting the highest standards for fluid consumption. Understanding what do milk grades mean provides clarity on the rigorous quality control that governs the dairy industry from farm to fridge.

Grade A milk is the only milk grade suitable for direct, fluid consumption, and all milk sold in stores for drinking must meet this standard. The question of is Grade B milk used for drinking milk is often asked, and the answer is that it is not, as it is designated for manufactured goods only.

In the United States, Grade A milk is the only type approved for fluid (drinking) consumption, meaning milk that does not meet those exacting standards is classified differently. So, what is Grade B milk used for? It is designated exclusively as "manufacturing grade milk," and its primary purpose is the production of a wide range of processed and shelf-stable dairy products.

According to the USDA, over 90% of all milk produced in the United States is Grade A. So, what is the difference between Grade A and B milk, and why don't we see Grade B on grocery store shelves? The distinction lies primarily in the strict sanitation standards and the ultimate use of the milk for fluid consumption versus manufacturing.

Over 90% of commercially produced milk in the US is Grade A, leading many to wonder about the other categories. In fact, what are the three grades of milk is a common misconception, as the U.S. dairy industry operates primarily on two federal grades for raw milk, not three, alongside a distinct system of usage classes. This article clarifies these systems and explains why most consumers only see Grade A milk.