Understanding the Risks of Bird Flu Virus in Raw Milk

President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for the nation’s top health job, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has pledged to increase the availability of raw milk across America. However, the discovery of the bird flu virus in unpasteurized milk sold in California stores highlights the known and potential risks, according to health experts.

Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Minnesota, warned that raw milk may contain infectious agents that can cause serious illness. A California-based company, Raw Farm LLC, recently recalled a batch of raw milk after the bird flu virus was detected in a sample. State health officials are conducting tests on raw milk as an additional safety measure.

Although no illnesses have been linked to Raw Farm products, health authorities have advised against consuming the contaminated milk. Tests on pasteurized milk have shown traces of the bird flu virus, which can be eliminated through pasteurization.

California’s Department of Food and Agriculture is testing raw milk at dairies regularly to ensure safety. While additional tests at Raw Farm sites were negative for the virus, ongoing monitoring is in place. Osterholm emphasized the need for more testing of raw dairy products to ensure public safety.

While there is no evidence that people have been sickened by the bird flu virus in raw milk, caution is advised. Tests on animals have shown severe illness and fatalities due to consumption of contaminated milk. Health experts recommend increased vigilance and testing protocols for raw milk products.

A small percentage of Americans consume raw milk annually, citing health benefits and taste as reasons. Raw Farm, endorsed by Kennedy and Shanahan, promotes its products as natural and nutritious. Health officials have reiterated the risks associated with raw milk consumption, citing past outbreaks and illnesses.

By Jonel Aleccia