Shoppers and businesses across Los Angeles could soon see milk and dairy products in short supply after workers at Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) plants voted today to allow a strike. More than 1,000 employees are demanding better pay, stronger job protections, improved benefits and safer working conditions as talks with the company remain deadlocked.
The workers, including those at DFA’s Southern California facilities such as the Alta Dena Dairy plant in the City of Industry, are seeking improved wages, job security, benefits and workplace safety as contract negotiations stall.
DFA is the largest dairy cooperative in North America, processing nearly 29% of U.S. milk. Its Southern California operations are critical for supplying grocery stores, schools and food banks across Los Angeles County. A strike at these facilities could quickly impact the region’s dairy supply chain due to the perishable nature of milk and related products.
“Our demands are clear and simple: protect our work, respect our time and pay us what we’ve earned,” Lou Villalvazo, chairman of the DFA National Bargaining Committee, said. “DFA can still avoid a strike but time is running out. Our members are ready to walk.”
A work stoppage in Southern California could lead to immediate shortages or price increases for milk, cheese, yogurt and other staples in local grocery stores. Schools and food assistance programs that rely on bulk dairy deliveries may also face challenges maintaining supplies, affecting thousands of families in the area.
“This company is only successful because of us and we take pride in our work,” Peter Rosales, a Local 630 shop steward at Alta Dena Dairy, said. “All we’re asking for is our fair share.”
The labor dispute is also drawing attention to broader issues in the dairy industry, including concerns about automation and job protections. The Teamsters are seeking national contract standards across 19 DFA facilities to prevent the cooperative from negotiating separate agreements that could divide workers.
DFA has not issued a public response to the strike authorization. Industry analysts say any interruption in processing or delivery can quickly ripple through supply chains, leading to product shortages and increased prices in markets like Los Angeles.
As negotiations continue, L.A.-area consumers and retailers are advised to prepare for potential impacts on dairy availability in the coming weeks. The situation remains fluid as both sides face pressure to reach an agreement and prevent disruptions to the region’s food supply.
