Urgent Recall: Listeria Contaminates Raw Milk

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has issued an urgent consumer warning regarding the recall of Sunshine Dairy raw milk sold in Berks, Lebanon, and Schuylkill counties. This action follows routine testing which confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in raw milk sold from August 5th to 15th, 2025. The contamination underscores the critical need for stringent food safety protocols, particularly with unpasteurized products that carry significant health risks. No health issues have been reported yet, but Listeria monocytogenes is a serious pathogen that can cause listeriosis, posing major risks to vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and nausea. The contaminated milk was distributed directly from the farm in Bethel, Berks County, emphasizing the importance of consistent quality control and regulatory oversight in maintaining public safety. This incident serves as a reminder to the international dairy community of the fundamental importance of sanitation, quality control, and compliance with safety protocols to safeguard consumer health. The recall not only ensures public safety but also fortifies trust in the agricultural oversight systems in place.