Is Raw Milk Safe?
WHY DO PEOPLE THINK RAW MILK IS HEALTHIER?
Advocates for raw milk claim that unpasteurized milk is healthier than pasteurized milk by:
Providing more nutrients
Preventing allergies and asthma
Relieving lactose intolerance
“However, currently, no evidence exists to support these claims. In fact, the FDA offers extensive information about misconceptions promoted by raw milk advocates, including the studies cited and a thorough scientific review of each, to correct these unsubstantiated claims.”
Here are the raw facts regarding these claims:
Pasteurization does not significantly affect the nutrients in milk. Many studies have shown that raw and pasteurized milk have similar amounts of proteins, fat, minerals, and vitamins.
Studies have shown that drinking raw milk may help relieve asthma and allergies in children. However, experts warn that the risk of bacterial disease is not worth the reward. (Source)
Both raw and pasteurized milk contain proteins that trigger allergic reactions or lactose intolerance in people with lactose sensitivities.
FACT: Pasteurization does make milk safer to drink. Health agencies such as the FDA recommend only drinking pasteurized milk. Read more from the FDA
What is Pasteurization: (Source)
The pasteurization process involves heating the raw milk at a specific temperature (usually 161 degrees Fahrenheit) for at least 15 seconds before cooling it rapidly back to 39 degrees. Pasteurization is a food safety management tool to reduce foodborne illnesses, which can be life-threatening.
The pasteurization process kills harmful microbial bacteria to make the milk safe to drink.
DANGERS OF DRINKING RAW MILK?
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that unpasteurized milk is more likely than pasteurized milk to cause foodborne illness that can lead to consumer hospitalization.
“Because it has not been treated with heat to rid it of microorganisms, [raw milk] consumption can spread dangerous pathogens, including bacteria, that can result in serious disease or death,” Maddie Pasquariello, MS, RDN, said.
Drinking raw milk can increase your risk for illnesses such as:
Escherichia coli (E. coli): Certain strains of E. coli can cause severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting. In some cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition affecting the kidneys.
Salmonella: Can cause symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, it can lead to hospitalization, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Listeria monocytogenes: This bacterium causes an infection called listeriosis, which is especially dangerous for pregnant people, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. This is very dangerous for pregnant mothers, it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Additionally, drinking raw milk can put you at risk for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird or avian flu. While avian flu is rare in humans, there are some known cases. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an advisory explaining that this virus can be transmitted by wild birds to other species, including dairy cattle.
TAKE-AWAY
Despite popular claims that raw milk is more nutritious or free of pathogens than pasteurized milk, experts say drinking raw milk is not safe. The CDC, FDA, and the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommend against drinking raw milk because of the likelihood of consuming harmful bacteria and germs that can cause foodborne illness. According to experts, consuming pasteurized milk is the safer option and offers plenty of nutrients, like protein and calcium.
At Aspire Family Medical our team can help you create a plan to reach your healthy lifestyle goals. Whether it is weight loss, healthy eating, or exercise, we have the tools available to help guide you in the right direction. Our memberships include an annual physical as well as additional healthcare services necessary for patients of all ages. If you are looking for personalized healthcare at an affordable rate in Liberty Hill, TX, or the surrounding communities, make an appointment today for a consultation, and let’s get you started toward reaching your goals.
Kerstin Gillespie, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, Founder of Aspire Family Medical
Kerstin’s provides Direct Primary Care at Aspire Family Medical. Her goal is to help her patients improve their wellness and health literacy, so that they are making informed decisions about their care. She loves getting to know her patients and aspires to treat them just like her family.