The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reaffirmed its position on raw milk consumption, emphasizing the health risks associated with unpasteurized dairy products. Pasteurization, introduced decades ago as a crucial public health measure, remains the FDA’s recommended method for ensuring milk safety.
Despite a small but growing interest in raw milk, with less than 1% of Americans opting for unpasteurized products, the FDA maintains that the perceived benefits of raw milk are not scientifically substantiated. In contrast, the health risks are well-documented.
Since 1987, 143 reported outbreaks of illness have been linked to raw milk consumption, including severe cases resulting in miscarriages, stillbirths, kidney failure, and deaths. These raw milk or raw milk products were contaminated with foodborne illness-causing bacteria like Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella. E. coli is especially dangerous because it can be transmitted from person to person.
A current outbreak of Salmonella tied to raw milk from a farm in California has affected at least 165 people since February. As of this writing, the outbreak is considered the largest reported Salmonella incident linked to raw milk in the United States over the past decade.
The FDA’s stance aligns with other health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics. They particularly warn that vulnerable populations such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, children, and pregnant women face heightened risks from raw milk consumption.
While the FDA prohibits interstate sale of raw milk, it does not regulate intrastate sales. Currently, 30 states allow some form of raw milk sales, while 20 states have explicit prohibitions. The FDA has stated that it has no intention of taking enforcement action against individuals who purchase and transport raw milk across state lines for personal consumption.
The agency has instead emphasized its role in consumer education, focusing on helping the public understand the risks associated with raw milk consumption. While respecting individual choices, the FDA strongly advocates for pasteurization as an effective measure to protect public health and maintain confidence in milk as a dietary staple.
Commenting on this article, one national food safety attorney said, “Along with the FDA, I strongly urge consumers to carefully consider the potential health hazards before choosing raw milk products. Perceived gains must be weighed against the exposer to serious illness, especially in our most vulnerable populations.”
