Last reviewed
Is raw milk legal in Iowa?
Yes. Raw milk is legal in Iowa - on the farm - and many farms offer it.
On-farm sales
Legalno permit, up to 10 lactating animalsHerdshares
Limited / gray areaFTCLDF reads the law as allowing themRetail stores
Not legal2026: the farm-store expansion (HF 2444/2767) died, and SF 2112, a repeal bill, was introduced.
Find raw milk in Iowa
See farms in Iowa listed in the Milk Finder, and the ones that deliver or have pickup near you.
Frequently asked questions
Is raw milk legal in Iowa?
Yes. Raw milk is legal in Iowa - on the farm - and many farms offer it.
Can you buy raw milk directly from a farm in Iowa?
Yes. Buying raw milk on the farm is legal in Iowa (no permit, up to 10 lactating animals).
Are herdshares (cow shares) legal in Iowa?
Only with major limits (FTCLDF reads the law as allowing them). Check the rules above before you buy.
Can you buy raw milk in stores in Iowa?
No. Selling raw milk in retail stores is not legal in Iowa.
Raw milk laws in nearby states
✅ Minnesota⚠️ Wisconsin✅ Illinois✅ Missouri✅ Nebraska✅ South Dakota All 50 states →
This is a plain-language summary for families, not legal advice. Laws change and sources sometimes disagree - before you buy, check the farm’s permit, test results and labels with the state’s department of agriculture.