Ohio's Raw Milk Legalization Proposal Faces Opposition Over Safety Concerns

Ohio legislators are considering House Bill 406, which seeks to permit the direct sale of raw milk to consumers. This initiative has sparked a debate, with strong opposition from food safety experts and some dairy producers who express concerns about the potential health risks associated with unpasteurized milk.

Currently, Ohio, ranked 11th nationally for dairy production, mandates pasteurization for all milk sold to consumers, a practice in place since 1997. The bill proposes allowing farms to sell raw milk directly, contingent on monthly bacterial testing and consumer liability waivers. However, critics argue these measures are insufficient to mitigate the risks.

Experts like Jason Hartschuch from OSU Extension highlight the increased risk of pathogens, including E. Coli and Salmonella, in raw milk. Rafael Jiminez-Flores of Ohio State University notes the historical transmission of diseases like tuberculosis through unpasteurized milk. These experts emphasize that bacterial levels can rise rapidly, sometimes overnight, making monthly testing inadequate.

Despite some consumer interest in raw milk's perceived natural benefits, Jiminez-Flores asserts there is no proven nutritional advantage over pasteurized milk. The Ohio Dairy Producers Association, represented by CEO Scott Higgins, also opposes the bill, prioritizing consumer safety based on past experiences.

John Young, CEO of Young's Jersey Dairy, which previously sold raw milk, has no plans to resume sales even if HB 406 passes. He cites past financial and reputational risks, including a salmonella outbreak linked to the business, as reasons for caution.