State Health Officials Urge Caution Over Raw Milk Consumption
In a significant health advisory, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has cautioned consumers against consuming raw milk from a specific lot produced by Raw Farm, LLC, following the detection of bird flu in a retail sample. This advisory was issued on Sunday, emphasizing the importance of avoiding cream top, whole raw milk from lot No. 20241109, which bears a “best by” date of November 27.
Voluntary recall and refunds
In response to the state’s directive, Raw Farm, LLC, based in Fresno County, has initiated a voluntary recall of the affected milk product. Consumers who have purchased this product can seek refunds from their original place of purchase. Retail establishments have also been instructed to remove the implicated products from their shelves to prevent further consumption.
The CDPH has reassured the public that pasteurized milk remains safe for consumption. Unlike raw milk, pasteurized milk undergoes a heating process that eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses, including bird flu. This process is critical to ensuring the safety of dairy products, which otherwise could pose significant health risks if consumed raw.
Warnings and current safety measures
The potential dangers associated with raw milk consumption have long been acknowledged by health authorities. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has previously issued warnings about the risks of raw milk, noting that it can harbor dangerous pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, and Campylobacter. In a statement from May 2024, the FDA highlighted these concerns, stating, “Raw milk can carry dangerous germs such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Campylobacter, and others that cause foodborne illness, often called ‘food poisoning.'”
Despite these warnings, raw milk continues to have its advocates, including notable figures such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Last month, Kennedy criticized the FDA’s stance on raw milk, describing it as part of the agency’s “war on health.”
Ongoing testing and public safety
The Santa Clara County Public Health Laboratory initially discovered the bird flu contamination during routine testing of retail raw milk products. This finding was subsequently confirmed by the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System. Following these results, the California Department of Food and Agriculture conducted onsite testing at Raw Farm facilities, which returned negative for bird flu. The department has committed to continuing its rigorous testing schedule, examining raw milk banks twice weekly to ensure consumer safety.
No reported illnesses
As of Sunday evening, there have been no reported illnesses linked to the contaminated lot of raw milk. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety advisories and opting for pasteurized products to mitigate health risks.
This development serves as a reminder of the ongoing vigilance required to protect public health in the face of potential foodborne illnesses.