Ballerina Farm Halts Raw Milk Sales Following Health Test Failures
In a development that has raised health concerns, Ballerina Farm has decided to halt the sales of its raw milk following failures in safety tests. This decision comes after repeat violations were detected in the farm’s bottled raw milk, causing the influential dairy operation to focus solely on pasteurized products.
Ballerina Farm’s Raw Milk Safety Issues
Located in Kamas Valley, Ballerina Farm, run by influencers Hannah and Daniel Neeleman, opened its doors to raw milk sales in 2025. However, the farm faced two significant health violations during testing in the summer of the same year, as reported by KPCW and records from the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food.
Health Violations and Test Results
The health inspectors discovered elevated levels of coliform bacteria, which can include harmful strains like E. coli, in the farm’s products during tests conducted in late May and early June 2025. Following these findings, the farm opted to pause raw milk sales to ensure customer safety.
Current Operational Changes
- Raw milk was only sold at the Kamas location.
- Milk that failed health inspections was not sold.
- The farm is now exclusively offering pasteurized milk.
A spokesperson from Ballerina Farm explained that the company is revisiting its infrastructure, acknowledging that challenges arose unexpectedly. The facility’s current setup is better suited for pasteurized products. Future plans include constructing a new dairy specifically designed for raw milk production.
Legislative Implications for Raw Milk Sales
In response to these incidents, legislation is being contemplated in Utah to enhance safety standards for raw milk sales. Sponsored by Rep. Mike Kohler, the proposed bill aims to establish stricter regulations while streamlining the sales process for raw milk. Kohler remarked on the need for improved health protocols, stating that if passed, the law would impose harsher penalties for violations.
Guidelines and Health Risks
Currently, Utah’s Raw Milk for Retail program dictates strict guidelines. Milch that fails safety tests must be either recalled or disposed of, with potential permit suspensions for repeated violations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that consuming raw milk poses serious health risks, including potential exposure to listeria and salmonella.
As Ballerina Farm shifts its focus to pasteurized dairy products, the commitment to health and safety remains paramount for both the farm and the community it serves. The ongoing review of state legislation will potentially reshape the landscape of raw milk sales in Utah.
