Let’s Talk About Jersey Cow Shares

Jersey cow shares are a great way to enjoy the benefits of Jersey cow organic milk when you do not have your own homestead or dairy cow. Jersey cow-share programs provide raw Jersey cow milk to those who otherwise would not get to reap the health benefits. Some people do not have enough space on their property to comfortably house their own Jersey cows. Others may have the space but lack the time needed to properly care for their dairy cow (which includes milking her at least twice a day). For these folks, cow sharing is an excellent option.

Many homesteaders and dairy farmers provide board and care for Jersey cows – plus the tasty milk products they produce – as part of a cow share program. Individuals can own an entire Jersey cow or go in with some friends and then share the cost (and the milky benefits).

Benefits of raw Jersey cow milk

Why would anyone want to buy Jersey cow shares? Why, for the raw milk, of course! If you are wondering why you would want to consume Jersey cow organic milk, let me give you a few good reasons.

1. Raw Jersey cow milk is packed with nutrients.
   Just one cup of raw Jersey cow milk contains 146 calories, 8 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat. As if that was not enough, it also has seven vitamins and minerals the human body needs to stay healthy.
2. Raw milk protects your bones.
   Jersey cow milk is beneficial to your bone health because it packs a one-two punch with the combination of vitamins C and D. Vitamin C is an essential ingredient in the formation of collagen, which is the foundation for healthy bone growth. Our bodies need Vitamin D to absorb calcium. Drinking raw milk rich in these two vitamins lowers your risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures. That’s important when you get older (or if you’re a rambunctious, fearless kid).
3. Raw milk can boost your immune system.
   Diet plays a huge role in strengthening the immune system. Numerous studies have shown over the years that consuming raw milk is an important part of a healthy diet and can contribute to a stronger immune reaction.
4. Raw milk is an alternative to regular milk.
   If you are like me, regular milk does not agree with you. At all. I’m talking gut-wrenching pain of epic proportions and skin irritations that look gross and feel itchy. Some people have an A1 beta-casein allergy, which is predominantly found in commercial dairy milk. Buying Jersey cow shares in a cow that produces A2 raw milk is your best bet for getting back to enjoying dairy without all the icky feelings you might get from regular milk.

How do Jersey cow shares work?

In most states, it is illegal to sell raw milk. Buying Jersey cow shares allows a workaround, giving people access to fresh, raw milk from a cow they technically own. Jersey cattle cost between $1,400 and $1,800 to buy outright. Don’t forget to factor in the costs associated with feeding, sheltering, and milking your cow. Some people cannot afford the ongoing investment, so they choose to buy Jersey cow shares instead.

One option is to buy a cow yourself and then find a local farmer to room, board, and care for it. The deal should include all feed costs, plus access to any milk from your cow. The other option is to get a group of friends or family members together and split the costs. You only get your share of the milk if you choose to split the costs of cow-sharing with others.

Jersey milk cow shares checklist

Before you sign a cow-share agreement, make sure the farmer promises to do the following:

Have any questions about cow shares? Feel free to ask in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer. Happy cow-sharing, friends!