What best describes handlers in the context of Federal Milk Orders?

Handlers in the context of Federal Milk Orders refer specifically to the entities that handle milk products from the point of production through to distribution. This encompasses a variety of roles, but primarily focuses on entities that process and distribute milk.

Distributors of milk are responsible for managing the logistics of getting milk from processors to retailers or end consumers. They ensure that milk is appropriately transported and delivered, thus maintaining the quality and safety of the product. This is crucial for meeting the standards that Federal Milk Orders aim to uphold regarding pricing, quality, and fair competition among various market participants.

Producers of milk, while integral to the supply chain, refer to farmers who produce milk rather than handle its distribution. Similarly, processors refer to those who convert raw milk into dairy products but do not necessarily encompass the entire handling process, as they may not be directly involved in distribution. Retailers, while they sell milk directly to consumers, represent just the final step in the supply chain and do not handle the milk in the broader sense meant by the term "handlers."