Texas Agriculture Commissioner Pushes for Raw Milk Sales in Grocery Stores
Source: DairyNews.today
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has advocated for raw milk to be sold in grocery stores, challenging long-standing safety regulations that require pasteurization. In a recent opinion piece on the Department of Agriculture’s website, Miller argued that consumers should have the freedom to decide whether to purchase unpasteurized milk, despite its associated risks.
A Call for Consumer Choice
Currently, Texas law prohibits the retail sale of raw milk, restricting its purchase to direct transactions from farms or farmers' markets. Miller, who grew up consuming raw milk on his family farm, called for a shift in policy to expand accessibility.
“Growing up, we didn’t go to the store for milk—we went to the barn,” Miller wrote. “I believe in personal choice and the freedom to decide what’s best for you and your family. Just because it’s risky doesn’t mean the option should be removed from the people.”
Health Risks of Raw Milk
Health officials have long cautioned against the dangers of raw milk. Unpasteurized milk can harbor harmful bacteria, including E. coli, salmonella, and listeria, posing risks of severe foodborne illnesses. Between 1998 and 2018, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded over 200 outbreaks linked to raw milk, resulting in more than 2,600 illnesses and 225 hospitalizations.
Before pasteurization became standard under the 1924 Pasteurized Milk Ordinance, dairy consumption accounted for 25% of foodborne illnesses. That figure has since fallen to about 1%, according to the Center for Dairy Research.
Recent Controversies
Concerns about raw milk safety resurfaced last month after California health officials detected bird flu in raw milk from Raw Farm LLC. The Fresno-based company voluntarily recalled its product, though no illnesses were reported. California requires testing of raw milk sold in stores as an added consumer protection.
Miller addressed these safety issues in his statement, emphasizing the importance of proper handling. “It takes knowledge, care, and some good cowboy logic to handle raw milk safely,” he said.
Growing Demand for Raw Milk
Despite the risks, raw milk consumption has gained traction among consumers seeking minimally processed foods. According to a 2022 FDA study, nearly 4.4% of U.S. adults—about 11 million people—consume raw milk at least once a year, with 1% reporting weekly use.
Miller’s push comes as debates over personal choice and government regulation continue to intensify. “The government shouldn’t force people to consume something they don’t want,” Miller said. “Similarly, it should allow people the right to choose what is best for their personal nutrition.”
While supporters of raw milk praise its perceived health benefits, critics argue that its risks far outweigh potential advantages. Whether Miller’s advocacy will lead to policy changes in Texas remains uncertain, but the conversation around raw milk sales is far from over.
Currently, Texas law prohibits the retail sale of raw milk, restricting its purchase to direct transactions from farms or farmers' markets. Miller, who grew up consuming raw milk on his family farm, called for a shift in policy to expand accessibility.
“Growing up, we didn’t go to the store for milk—we went to the barn,” Miller wrote. “I believe in personal choice and the freedom to decide what’s best for you and your family. Just because it’s risky doesn’t mean the option should be removed from the people.”
Health Risks of Raw Milk
Health officials have long cautioned against the dangers of raw milk. Unpasteurized milk can harbor harmful bacteria, including E. coli, salmonella, and listeria, posing risks of severe foodborne illnesses. Between 1998 and 2018, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded over 200 outbreaks linked to raw milk, resulting in more than 2,600 illnesses and 225 hospitalizations.
Before pasteurization became standard under the 1924 Pasteurized Milk Ordinance, dairy consumption accounted for 25% of foodborne illnesses. That figure has since fallen to about 1%, according to the Center for Dairy Research.
Recent Controversies
Concerns about raw milk safety resurfaced last month after California health officials detected bird flu in raw milk from Raw Farm LLC. The Fresno-based company voluntarily recalled its product, though no illnesses were reported. California requires testing of raw milk sold in stores as an added consumer protection.
Miller addressed these safety issues in his statement, emphasizing the importance of proper handling. “It takes knowledge, care, and some good cowboy logic to handle raw milk safely,” he said.
Growing Demand for Raw Milk
Despite the risks, raw milk consumption has gained traction among consumers seeking minimally processed foods. According to a 2022 FDA study, nearly 4.4% of U.S. adults—about 11 million people—consume raw milk at least once a year, with 1% reporting weekly use.
Miller’s push comes as debates over personal choice and government regulation continue to intensify. “The government shouldn’t force people to consume something they don’t want,” Miller said. “Similarly, it should allow people the right to choose what is best for their personal nutrition.”
While supporters of raw milk praise its perceived health benefits, critics argue that its risks far outweigh potential advantages. Whether Miller’s advocacy will lead to policy changes in Texas remains uncertain, but the conversation around raw milk sales is far from over.
