MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Dairy Products Association (WDPA) applauds the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) for its proactive role in implementing the National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS), which will begin monthly milk sampling on all Wisconsin dairy farms to monitor for highly pathogenic avian
influenza (HPAI/H5N1).
“Protecting both animal and public health is essential to maintaining consumer confidence in Wisconsin dairy,” said Amy Winters, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Dairy Products Association. “This initiative strengthens our ability to detect and respond swiftly to potential outbreaks, and we are fully supportive of the science-based, Wisconsin-
specific, approach being taken.”
Starting this month, one milk sample per dairy farm will be collected each month and tested at the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Samples will be obtained through existing milk quality infrastructure to minimize disruption to farm operations. WDPA commends the collaborative effort between state and federal agencies, veterinary scientists, and industry stakeholders to uphold rigorous health standards while allowing dairy businesses to operate efficiently and safely.
“WDPA is committed to collaborating with DATCP, USDA, dairy processors, farmers, haulers, and testing laboratories to help ensure the success of this testing strategy—through clear communication, practical implementation, and a shared focus on protecting herd health and public trust,” Winters added.
“Wisconsin’s dairy industry has long set the standard for quality, and this effort reinforces that commitment,” said Winters. “By strengthening animal health protections and leveraging the proven safety of pasteurization, this testing strategy ensures consumers can continue to trust the milk and dairy products made in our state.”
WDPA encourages its members and industry partners to stay informed by subscribing toDATCP’s NMTS updates and reviewing H5N1 response protocols available on the DATCP website.
