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What is an Approved Plant [Agriculture]? A Comprehensive Legal Overview
Definition & Meaning
An approved plant in agriculture refers to one or more buildings or parts of buildings located adjacent to each other that have been evaluated and authorized by the Administrator of the USDA. These facilities must meet specific operational and safety standards to qualify for inspection and grading services. The approval process ensures that the plant can safely handle dairy products, receiving them only from compliant sources, with occasional exceptions for products from non-approved plants, provided they meet quality standards for No. 2 milk.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "approved plant" is primarily used in the context of agricultural law, particularly concerning dairy product processing and safety regulations. It is relevant in legal practices that involve food safety, agricultural marketing, and compliance with federal standards. Users may encounter forms related to the approval process or compliance checks, which can be managed using templates from US Legal Forms, drafted by experienced attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A dairy processing facility in Wisconsin is designated as an approved plant after meeting all USDA standards. It sources milk exclusively from local farms that also comply with USDA regulations.
Example 2: A hypothetical cream buying station receives a shipment from a non-approved plant. The cream is tested and found to meet quality standards, allowing it to be processed in an approved plant.
Relevant laws & statutes
Approved plants are governed by the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 and the Egg Products Inspection Act as outlined in 7 CFR 58.101. These regulations establish the standards for inspection and grading of dairy products.
State-by-state differences
State
Variation
California
Has additional state-specific requirements for dairy plant approval.
Texas
Follows federal guidelines but may have state inspections for compliance.
New York
Imposes stricter sanitation standards for approved plants.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Approved Plant
A facility authorized for inspection and grading of dairy products.
Focuses specifically on dairy processing standards.
Certified Facility
A facility recognized for meeting certain health and safety standards.
Can apply to various food products, not limited to dairy.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are involved in dairy processing or plan to establish a facility, ensure that you understand the approval process. You can utilize templates from US Legal Forms to assist with necessary documentation. If the process seems complex, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.
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