The US Senator for Vermont, Bernard Sanders, has asked the US Department of Justice to investigate possible antitrust violations by Dean Foods.

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Sanders claimed that consolidation of the US liquid milk market has depressed dairy prices.


Dean Foods purchases about 70% of the fluid milk produced in New England, a spokesperson for Sanders’ office told just-food.


“The scale of the company is what could present an anti-trust issue,” the spokesperson said.


Farmers in Vermont have seen falling returns and, according to Sanders, are losing about US$100 per cow, per month.

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“Vermont dairy farmers are facing an unprecedented crisis,” the spokesperson said.


It will be “some time” before the Department of Justice reaches a decision over whether further action is required, the spokesperson added.


Officials from Dean Foods could not be reached for immediate comment.