Figures are also sought for the cost of converting the more specialised dairies so they could process and package milk for sale to "middle-ground" retailers.

BBC: New move in dairy inquiry

Milk that is in its final package form for beverage use shall have been pasteurized or ultrapasteurized, and shall contain not less than 8.25% solids and not less than 3.25% milk fat .

FORBES: Why Milk Isn't As "Natural" As You Think

As well as increasing aid to wheat and cotton farmers, the package diversifies farm aid to cover producers of milk, lentils, honey, chickpeas, mohair and other products.

BBC: US farm aid threatens new trade row

The package would allow dairy farmers to organise themselves into stronger producer organisations to negotiate milk prices for farmers.

BBC: EU dairy package