The Manitoba Regulation 301/89 has been amended to update various provisions concerning the marketing and regulation of milk and dairy products. These changes, formalized in the Milk General Order, aim to clarify definitions, streamline reporting requirements, and refine processes for dairy producers and processors in the province.

The amendments begin with defining critical terms, such as “acceptable milk,” which refers to milk meeting quality standards, and “substandard milk,” defined per the existing Milk Quality Regulation. A “dairy plant” is specified as a facility where milk is processed into dairy products, and “over-quota production” refers to milk production exceeding a farm’s set limits. Additionally, the term “plan” is used to denote the Dairy Farmers of Manitoba Marketing Plan Regulation.

A new section emphasizes the importance of accurate record-keeping for all parties involved in marketing regulated dairy products. Producers and processors are required to maintain comprehensive books and respond promptly to information requests from the board, using approved forms within a specified timeframe.

Several existing sections have been revised for clarity. In Section 2, the term “manufacturer” is removed in favor of specific references to “dairy plants” operated by processors. Section 3 has been updated to improve clarity by replacing personal pronouns with neutral terms. Section 4 simplifies the language by changing “Subject to the expectations” to “No registered producer,” directly specifying producers’ obligations. Sections 5, 6, and 7 have been streamlined to remove redundant references to manufacturers, focusing solely on registered producers and dairy plants.

A significant amendment is the introduction of a “Daily Quota Pool” in Section 9, where proceeds from the marketing of acceptable milk are held. At the end of each month, these proceeds will be distributed to registered producers based on their deliveries, with adjustments for board expenses. Section 10 outlines penalties for over-quota production, stating that registered producers who deliver excess milk will not receive payment and will incur a penalty of $10.00 per kilogram over the quota.

Furthermore, Sections 11 to 14 have been repealed to eliminate outdated provisions. The amendments to Section 18 refine processors’ responsibilities, specifying that they must accept milk deliveries negotiated with the board and conduct tests for inhibitory substances, reporting confirmed positive results to the board.

The amendments aim to enhance clarity, ensure compliance, and improve the regulatory framework governing dairy production and marketing in Manitoba.

Manitoba (114/2023) August 1, 2023