California's Raw Milk Trend Faces Scrutiny Amid Bird Flu Concerns
Source: The DairyNews
As US dairy farms grapple with outbreaks of the HN51 virus in cows, a controversial belief is gaining traction among some wellness enthusiasts in California. They argue that consuming unpasteurized milk infected with the virus could serve as a natural vaccine, boosting immunity against the virus.
Despite warnings from US health authorities that raw milk may contain live H5N1 viruses—responsible for bird flu outbreaks across 46 dairy farms—demand for it has surged. Proponents liken this practice to other alternative health trends, believing that the supposed benefits outweigh the risks.
Mark McAfee, founder of the Fresno-based Raw Milk Institute, reported receiving multiple inquiries for H5N1-infected milk, primarily from Californians. This interest persists despite reports of farmyard cats suffering and dying after ingesting the same product, with symptoms including severe systemic infections.
Actress and wellness advocate Gwyneth Paltrow, known for promoting unconventional health practices through her website Goop, also endorses the consumption of raw milk, citing its "health benefits."
However, health experts and the Food Standards Authority (FDA) continue to stress the dangers of raw milk. Recent findings indicate that milk from infected cows could potentially harbor high concentrations of the virus, posing significant public health risks.
The raw milk market, particularly in Los Angeles, is thriving, with upscale stores selling it as a "superfood" despite its historical association with outbreaks of serious diseases. Public health officials remain firm on their stance against raw milk, especially in light of recent developments, advocating for pasteurized dairy as a safer alternative.
Mark McAfee, founder of the Fresno-based Raw Milk Institute, reported receiving multiple inquiries for H5N1-infected milk, primarily from Californians. This interest persists despite reports of farmyard cats suffering and dying after ingesting the same product, with symptoms including severe systemic infections.
Actress and wellness advocate Gwyneth Paltrow, known for promoting unconventional health practices through her website Goop, also endorses the consumption of raw milk, citing its "health benefits."
However, health experts and the Food Standards Authority (FDA) continue to stress the dangers of raw milk. Recent findings indicate that milk from infected cows could potentially harbor high concentrations of the virus, posing significant public health risks.
The raw milk market, particularly in Los Angeles, is thriving, with upscale stores selling it as a "superfood" despite its historical association with outbreaks of serious diseases. Public health officials remain firm on their stance against raw milk, especially in light of recent developments, advocating for pasteurized dairy as a safer alternative.
