Co-ops

http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_usc&docid=Cite:+7USC291

The Capper – Volstead Act became law in 1922 – another time of depressed farm prices. Case (United States Grocers, Ltd. v. United States, 186 F. Supp. 724, 733 (N.D. Cal. 1960) law clearly indicates the purpose of the Capper – Volstead Act is to enhance the farmer’s bottom line.

Perhaps, the most important section of the Act is “Provided, however, That such associations are operated for the mutual benefit of the members.” Here we come, once again, to the problem of transparency.

Who can say with certainty, as opposed to belief, their co-op benefits all members? This is not to say none do. Some do a terrific job. The point is how do you know?

If Americans thought critically, advertising, as we know it, would not work. If dairy farmers thought critically, virtually all the dairy co-ops would be out there doing something right now. Now is the time to hold some feet to the fire and not blindly accept meaningless slogans.