Rule 40-2-16-.27 - Labeling(1)Compliance with Federal Requirements. All bottles, containers, and packages enclosing raw milk for human consumption must be labeled in accordance with the applicable requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act as amended, the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act (NLEA) of 1990 and regulations developed thereunder, and the Code of Federal Regulations, and must comply with the applicable requirements of these regulations.(2)Required Elements. All bottles, containers, and packages enclosing raw milk for human consumption must be conspicuously marked with:(a) The words "Grade A Raw" on the exterior surface. Acceptable locations include the principal display panel, the secondary or informational panel, or the cap/cover.(b) The identity of the farm where packaged. This identity must include the name, address, and Department permit or license number.(c) The lot code, bottling date, or an approved comparable system to identify and differentiate products in the event of a recall.(d) The following information statement, in print no smaller than twelve (12) point font, must be included on the package: "Warning: this is a raw milk product that is not pasteurized and may increase your risk of foodborne illness."(e) The common name of the hooved mammal producing the milk must precede the name of the milk when the product is other than cattle milk. For example, "Goat Milk," "Sheep Milk," "Water Buffalo Milk," etc., respectively.(3)Misleading Information Prohibited. The use of any misleading marks, words, or endorsements upon the label is prohibited.(4)Trade Designs. The Department may permit the use of registered trade designs or similar terms on the bottle cap or label when, in its opinion, they are not misleading and are not used to obscure the labeling.(5)Prohibited Terms. Descriptive labeling terms such as "wholesome" or "healthy" are prohibited.Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 40-2-16-.27
O.C.G.A. § 26-2-450, et seq.
Original Rule entitled "Labeling" adopted. F. June 9, 2023; eff. July 1, 2023, as specified by the Agency.