FDA Launches Nationwide Testing of Raw Cow’s Milk Cheese for Avian Influenza

USA 06.01.2025

Source: DairyNews.today

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated a national sampling program to test aged raw cow’s milk cheese for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1. This move comes as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to ensure food safety and protect public health.

FDA Launches Nationwide Testing of Raw Cow’s Milk Cheese for Avian Influenza

Focus on Aged Raw Milk Cheese

Under U.S. regulations, cheese made from raw (unpasteurized) milk must be aged for a minimum of 60 days to reduce the risk of pathogens. The FDA’s sampling assignment will involve collecting 300 samples of raw cow’s milk cheese aged for at least 60 days from warehouses and distribution centers across the country.

The sampling period runs from late December through the end of March.

Testing for HPAI H5N1

The primary objective of this initiative is to determine whether viable H5N1 virus—a strain of avian influenza—can be detected in the cheese. If the virus is found, the FDA plans to take appropriate follow-up actions to safeguard consumers.

Protecting Public Health

This proactive measure underscores the FDA’s commitment to food safety in the face of emerging risks. The results of the sampling program will inform future regulatory actions and help ensure that raw milk cheese remains safe for consumption.

The agency has not yet indicated whether the presence of HPAI has been confirmed in any cheese samples, but consumers are advised to stay informed as testing progresses.