Key Takeaways:
– An unidentified strain of avian flu was discovered in a sample of raw milk provided by the Fresno-based dairy Raw Farm LLC.
– Raw Farm LLC is also linked to previous outbreaks of foodborne illnesses, with several product recalls over the past two decades.
– Pasteurization is a key process that kills harmful organisms in raw milk, enhancing its safety for direct consumption.
– Experts are concerned that the increase in raw milk advocacy may increase exposure to harmful pathogens, including avian flu.
– The continued consumption of unpasteurized milk is risky, as it carriers potentially dangerous microbes, including E.coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter.
The Rising Concern Over Raw Milk
As reports of an unidentified bird flu strain found in Fresno’s Raw Farm LLC sample surface, concerns about the potential threats of consuming raw milk are escalating. There are no links between the consumption of raw milk and any illness so far. Yet, the history of Raw Farm LLC, which experienced many occurrences of its products being contaminated and causing multiple illnesses, is sparking concerns.
Raw Farm LLC’s History of Contamination
Dating back to February, 11 individuals fell sick after consuming Raw Farm’s cheddar cheese. Five of these cases needed hospitalization, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Over the past two decades, a variety of product recalls involving this dairy company have occurred. In 2022 alone, three of Raw Farm LLC’s products were recalled due to Campylobacter contamination in the milk and Salmonella presence in cheese, milk, and heavy cream.
Unpasteurized Products’ Potential Risks
According to public data, at least 35 individuals fell ill from 2012 to 2023 after consuming Raw Farm’s raw products. Mary McGonigle-Martin, a Murrieta resident, recalls a horrifying experience back in 2006 when her son Christopher’s health took a drastic turn after consuming raw milk bought from the said farm. He experienced renal failure, congestive heart failure, a collapsed lung, acute pancreatitis, high blood pressure, and seizures.
Bird Flu: A New Threat in Raw Milk
Apart from the past experiences with Raw Farm’s products, the newest concern looming is the potential threat of avian flu in unpasteurized milk. Avian flu has been identified in a retail sample of raw milk in Fresno. This increases the concern for the safety of raw milk, which has not been pasteurized, leaving it vulnerable to germs that could be eliminated with high heat.
The Negative Effects of Raw Milk Advocacy
Despite countless warnings and past experiences, raw milk advocacy is on the rise. The potential appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a known raw milk advocate, as the head of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, could potentially increase the exposure and consumption of raw milk, leading to a higher risk of avian flu.
Microbes in Milk and the Importance of Pasteurization
Food scientists warn of the higher potential danger of infection from pathogens in unpasteurized milk in comparison to pasteurized milk. Pasteurization processes, which use high heat to kill germs present in raw milk, play a significant role in ensuring the product’s safety. David A. Mills, a professor in the Department of Food Science & Technology at UC Davis, emphasizes the risk of unprocessed milk harboring harmful organisms, such as E. coli.
Final Notes on Raw Milk Consumption
Even though raw milk may be legally sold in California if specific sanitation and licensing requirements are met, the risk of consuming unpasteurized milk remains high. The California Department of Public Health highlights that these requirements do not guarantee safety from harmful germs in raw milk dairy products. As the public health and raw milk debate continues, consumers are urged to prioritize their health and safety.