Merger sparks organic milk competition worries

Capital Press File Holstein cows are seen in this file photo.The proposed merger of two large dairy companies has some on the organic dairy industry worried.

A proposed merger between two major dairy processors has sparked concerns of reduced competition for organic milk, potentially reducing prices paid to farmers.

The planned takeover of Colorado-based Whitewave Foods for $12.5 billion by Danone, a global corporation based in France, would likely shrink the number of buyers for organic milk in many markets, according to the Cornucopia Institute, an organic industry watchdog group.

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