MNR Investigation Nov. 21, 2006
The Bovine has obtained court documents pertaining to the case against farmer Michael Schmidt, which will be heard beginning January 26th, 2009 in Newmarket, and we will be sharing them with our readers:
Crown Summary
In June of 2006, a complaint was received by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs from the York Regional Health Unit regarding the possible distribution of unpasteurized milk to a location at 9100 Bathurst Street in Thornhill, Ontario. The matter was eventually turned over to the Ministry of Natural Resources to investigate whether the sale or distribution of unpasteurized milk and or milk products was actually taking place. Through investigation it was learned that the suspected products were being delivered by Mr. Schmidt using a converted school bus, which had been painted blue.
The defendant in this case is Michael Schmidt, born June 13, 1954. He resides at L44 C3, Glenelg Township, 393889 2nd Concession Rd., Durham, Ontario. Mr. Schmidt is a farmer, and operates a farm at this location. Mr. Schmidt is in the business of providing specialty foods including baked goods, meat, fruit and dairy products; the dairy products he provides are unpasteurized milk and cream, and products that are made from unpasteurized milk, including cheese and quark. According to the Milk Act of Ontario under Section 15(1), it is illegal to operate a plant without a licence, and according to section 15(2), it is also illegal to carry on a business as a distributor without a licence. Continue reading
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