A Huron County man has been fined nearly $70,000 and placed on probation after operating an unlicensed milk plant in rural Ontario.
Steven Martin ran the facility at 45603 Huron Bruce Road in Clifford without a valid licence. This activity violated section 15(1) of Ontario’s Milk Act, which requires all milk processors to hold an active licence before producing or selling milk products.
The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFAB) began investigating after receiving reports of unlicensed processing. As part of the inquiry, officers from the ministry’s Compliance, Enforcement, and Intelligence Unit obtained a search warrant and inspected the property. During their visit, they found Martin had been operating the plant between May 15 and August 12, 2024, without proper authorization.
Because Martin did not appear in court, Justice of the Peace Karl McNamara proceeded with the case in his absence. On September 25, 2025, the Huron County Provincial Offences Court convicted Martin of operating a milk plant without a licence.
As a result, the court imposed a $55,000 fine and a 25-per-cent victim fine surcharge, bringing the total to $68,750. In addition, Martin received a two-year probation order that requires him to fully comply with the Milk Act and all related regulations.
The Milk Act plays a key role in protecting food safety and supporting fair competition within Ontario’s dairy sector. By ensuring every milk plant meets licensing and inspection standards, the province helps maintain consumer confidence in local dairy products.
Unlicensed operations can face significant penalties, including fines, probation, or additional enforcement action. The OMAFAB reminds all producers and processors to maintain valid licences and follow all provincial requirements to keep Ontario’s dairy industry safe and accountable.
