Why Raw Milk?

For generations, families drank milk straight from the cow. It was fresh, full of flavor, and rich in nutrients. Today, most milk is pasteurized and homogenized — heated to high temperatures and processed to extend shelf life. While that process kills harmful bacteria, it also destroys many of the naturally occurring enzymes, probiotics, and heat-sensitive vitamins that make milk so nourishing.

Our raw milk is:

• Full of live enzymes that help your body digest dairy naturally

• Rich in probiotics that support a healthy gut

• Packed with vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin B12, and phosphorus in their most natural form

• Creamy and flavorful because it hasn’t been processed or altered

• From healthy, grass-fed cows whose milk changes with the seasons — just as nature intended

Many customers tell us they notice a difference right away: better digestion, better taste, and a closer connection to their food source.

Common Misconceptions About Raw Milk

Misconception #1: “Raw milk is unsafe to drink.”
When raw milk comes from healthy cows and is handled with strict cleanliness, it can be a safe and wholesome food. We test our herd’s health, maintain spotless equipment, and cool the milk immediately after milking. Many people have safely enjoyed raw milk for generations.

Misconception #2: “Pasteurized milk is just as healthy.”
Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria, but it also destroys natural enzymes, probiotics, and some heat-sensitive vitamins. Many of our customers find they digest raw milk more easily and appreciate the fuller flavor.

Misconception #3: “All milk is the same.”
Not at all! The nutrition and taste of milk depend on the cow’s breed, diet, and living conditions. Our Jersey cows graze on pasture, producing milk that is higher in butterfat, richer in vitamins, and naturally sweet.

Misconception #4: “You can’t trust the source of raw milk.”
That may be true with anonymous sources, but at Sunny Pastures, you know your farmers and your cows. You can visit, see the barn, and even meet your cow. Transparency is one of our core values.

1. What is a herdshare?
A herdshare is a way for you to own a share of a dairy herd. Instead of buying milk, you’re purchasing part ownership in the cows and paying us to care for and milk them on your behalf. This allows you to enjoy fresh, raw milk from your own cow without the work of keeping her at home.

2. Why can’t I just buy raw milk from you?
In Kentucky, it’s not legal to sell raw milk directly to the public. However, herdshare owners are entitled to the milk from their own cow. When you join Sunny Pastures, you become a co-owner of our herd, and your milk is simply part of your cow’s production.

3. Is your milk A2?
Yes. All of our cows produce 100% A2/A2 milk, which many people find gentler on their stomachs.

4. What breeds of cows do you have?
We primarily keep Jersey cows for their rich, creamy milk. Jerseys are known for their gentle nature and high butterfat content — perfect for butter, cheese, and cream.

5. How do you ensure raw milk safety?
We follow strict sanitation protocols:

• Cows are grass-fed and pastured daily

• Milking equipment is sanitized before every use

• Milk is cooled immediately to safe temperatures

• We bottle only into clean, sterilized containers
  When raw milk is handled properly from healthy cows, it can be a wholesome, nutrient-rich food.

6. How do I get my milk?
We have convenient weekly pickup spots. You can bring your own clean jars or use the glass jars we provide with a deposit. Pickups are chilled, quick, and friendly.

7. How much milk will I get each week?
Each full share equals one gallon of milk per week. You can purchase more than one share if you’d like extra.

8. What if I’m out of town and can’t pick up my milk?
You’re welcome to have a friend or family member pick it up for you.

9. What other products do you offer?
Alongside milk, we often have cream, butter, yogurt, cheese, seasonal products (like pumpkin bread or apple cider), and fresh-baked bread. We’re always working to roll out new farm goodies like chocolate milk and cultured butter.

10. Can we visit our cow?
Absolutely! We believe in connecting people to where their food comes from. Owners are welcome to visit by appointment so we can ensure the cows are relaxed and you get a great farm experience.

11. Do you name your cows?
Yes! We think it’s important for you to know your cow. We keep a herd book with names, pictures, and a little personality note about each one.

12. Do you collaborate with other farms?
Yes. We believe in strengthening our local farm community. We work with other small farmers to provide additional products and services.

13. Will you be offering more products in the future?
Yes! God has blessed our farm, and we’re expanding thoughtfully. Watch for new offerings like chocolate milk, sourdough bread, and more.

14. Where is Sunny Pastures located?
We’re in central Kentucky. Exact pickup locations are given to herdshare owners.