U.S. Grade Standards for Dairy are voluntary and aid in the marketing of milk and dairy products by providing a common language of trade through the development, improvement, and interpretation of standards, specifications and quality improvement programs.
Individuals or industry groups who wish to propose the development or revision of a U.S. grade standard may contact the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Any action AMS takes on U.S. grade standards will reflect the broad interest of individuals, industry, and federal, state, and local agencies.
Visual Aids
Special photo guides, models, color standards, and other visual interpretative guides are available for reference to specific U.S. Grade Standards.
- Sediment Standards Visual Aids (pdf)
- US Sediment Standards (pdf)
- Scorched Particles Visual Aid (jpg)
- Scorched Particle Standard (pdf)
USDA Butter Color Guide
Develop or revise a U.S. grade standard please contact:
Yvette Percell, Dairy Products Marketing Specialist
USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Room 2746-South Building
Washington, DC 20250-0269
Yvette.Percell@usda.gov
For additional information on visual aids please contact:
Yvette Percell, Dairy Products Marketing Specialist
202-690-3571
Yvette.Percell@usda.gov