Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to investigate the nationwide shortage of half-pint milk cartons, particularly affecting dairies and schools.

Schumer emphasized the USDA’s unique position to collaborate with the dairy industry, farmers, and schools to address the shortage. The 8-ounce carton scarcity, crucial for school milk servings, is impacting dairies’ ability to supply this size. Schumer stressed the need for immediate action to mitigate the shortage’s impact, urging the USDA to explore packaging alternatives and find creative solutions. The shortage, attributed to Pactiv Evergreen’s supply disruptions, has raised concerns about potential consequences like milk dumping and layoffs in dairies such as Cream-O-Land.

Cream-O-Land, a New Jersey-based dairy, faces uncertainty due to the supply chain snag with Pactiv Evergreen, their carton supplier. Despite efforts to find alternative suppliers, challenges persist, and the dairy is engaging with The Kraft Group to explore options. Schumer’s call for a USDA investigation seeks to expedite solutions and ensure continued milk supply to schools across the country, emphasizing the urgency of action to minimize the shortage’s impacts on both the dairy industry and the broader economy.