Packaging Announcement – January 2025

The use of plastic crates to package dairy mixes has a long history in the industry. While other packaging options have become available, the use of reusable packaging held a slight economical advantage. However, in the past year, the number of unreturned crates has increased by over 200%, eliminating that advantage.

At Meadowvale, Food Safety and Quality are top priorities, as demonstrated by our SQF certification. With the FDA’s heightened focus on preventing foodborne illnesses from pathogens like Listeria and Salmonella, the risks associated with milk crates have become more apparent. Crates often harbor harmful bacteria, especially as some are stored in unsanitary conditions like alleys or near trash. Despite thorough cleaning efforts, their design makes full sanitation nearly impossible, posing a liability to stores and manufacturers.

For these reasons, and to uphold the high standards of food safety and quality, Meadowvale has decided to discontinue the use of milk crates and switch to corrugated boxes. Changing the packaging will have benefits beyond cost. Corrugated boxes are less prone to leakage, do not crowd storerooms, and are more sanitary-a key consideration for our high food safety standards. This also allows for easier traceability of our products as those packaged in crates do not allow for easy reading of batch codes.

We ask that customers dispose of the boxes at their store. We recognize that this change may require new or modified waste management services. However, it is our assessment that the benefits of this change outweigh the challenges. We thank you for your understanding of this change and wish you a successful 2025 season.