By Aditya Aryan, Health Consultant
California health officials have flagged a concerning case of avian influenza (bird flu) detected in a batch of raw, unpasteurized milk sold in stores. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a warning advising consumers to avoid consuming the affected milk, produced by Raw Farm, LLC.
Table of Contents
Details of the Recall
The detection occurred during routine Cream Top Whole Raw Milk from Raw Farm testing. The affected batch has a “best by” date of November 27, 2024, and has been voluntarily recalled by the company at the CDPH’s request.
While no illnesses have been reported, officials emphasized caution due to the ongoing spread of bird flu among dairy cows, poultry, and sporadic human cases.
Why Is Raw Milk Risky?
Unlike pasteurized milk, raw milk has not undergone high-temperature treatment to kill harmful pathogens. Consuming raw milk can lead to illnesses caused by bacteria such as:
- Salmonella
- Listeria monocytogenes
- E. coli
- Campylobacter
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends choosing pasteurized milk to reduce the risk of milk-borne diseases, which have been significantly curtailed since the introduction of pasteurization in the early 1900s.
Public Health Advisory
The CDPH has advised consumers who purchased the recalled batch to:
- Dispose of the Milk: Do not consume or attempt to boil the raw milk.
- Clean Storage Areas: Thoroughly wash any containers or surfaces that came into contact with the milk.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Seek medical advice if flu-like symptoms develop.
FAQs
1. Can bird flu survive in milk?
Yes, bird flu can persist in raw milk, especially if it hasn’t been pasteurized. Heating at high temperatures eliminates the virus.
2. Is pasteurized milk safe to drink during an outbreak?
Yes, pasteurized milk is safe and undergoes processes to kill harmful bacteria and viruses, including bird flu.
3. Who is most at risk from raw milk?
Pregnant women, children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness from raw milk consumption.
4. What should I do if I drank the recalled milk?
Monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, or gastrointestinal distress. Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms occur.
5. Why is raw milk still sold if it’s risky?
Some consumers prefer raw milk for perceived health benefits or taste, despite the higher risk of contamination.
This incident highlights the importance of rigorous food safety measures and the benefits of pasteurization in protecting public health.
Aditya Aryan
Health Consultant and Blogger