Gathering information for building a micro dairy

[moosemaniac]

I am soooooo determined to make a living with my goats and leave the 9-5 world. Does anyone know of sources for plans for building a micro dairy cheese plant? Also, sources of equipment?

Ruth

[Freeholder]

You should probably start with your local agricultural extension agent and the official in charge of licensing dairies in your state. They can help you find out exactly what you'll be required to do in order to be licensed.

Some of the equipment you'll need can come from a restaurant supply place (triple stainless steel sinks). Other stuff will have to come from specialty suppliers catering to the cheesemakers. There are a couple of magazines specifically for dairies -- I can't remember the names off the top of my head, but maybe someone else will be able to help you out here. You could try a Google search for cheesemaking, and follow links until you find what you need. (I know there is also a forum for cheesemakers.)

Kathleen

[Jillis]

Good advice. You can also use a water-jacket type kettle from a restaurant for small scale cheesemaking.
We personally are going to use the services of Master Cheesemaker Peter Dixon who does dairy consulting. I attended one of his workshops on cheesemaking, he is a down-to-earth farmer/genius cheese maker. He knows all the ins and outs of the business and process of cheesemaking and he has helped set up several small dairies.
Peruse his site for ideas:

http://www.dairyfoodsconsulting.com/

[steff bugielski]

I don't know about PA but I am in the process of converting an unused camper/trailer into a cheese room. I will be making hard raw goat cheese. The inspector said as long as I have the proper equiptment it would be ok. Your Dept of agri. Will be of great help.
Steff

[Jillis]

Steff, don't you need to have cement halfway up the walls, or a drain in the floor?

[steff bugielski]

I need to have non-pourous(sp) walls. I will use the metal roofing. I will have a drain in the floor and the floor will be cement. My inspector said as long as i follow the regulations it will not matter what type of structure I use.
Steff

[Jillis]

Cool!
I'm excited for you!