Swift Doctor! What You Must Know Before Drinking Raw Milk Straight From A Cow | Must Read For Basheshe!

By Our Reporter

Health experts are warning consumers against drinking raw milk, saying it poses serious health risks despite claims that it is a healthier alternative to pasteurised milk.

Raw milk — dairy from cows or goats that has not been pasteurised — has long been promoted by some as a natural and nutrient-rich option. Supporters claim it can cure lactose intolerance, allergies, and improve gut health. However, scientific evidence has repeatedly debunked these myths.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who consume raw dairy products face a risk of disease 840 times higher than those who consume pasteurised milk.

“Pasteurisation reduces harmful and spoilage microorganisms in milk, making it safer for consumption and extending its shelf life,” experts note.

While pasteurisation may slightly reduce certain vitamins in milk, scientists agree the nutritional impact is minimal compared to the protection it offers against infection.

Food Poisoning Risk

Raw milk can contain dangerous bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, and Campylobacter, which cause severe foodborne illnesses. These infections can be particularly dangerous for babies, young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Even farms that maintain excellent hygiene cannot completely eliminate these risks, as contamination can occur during milking, storage, or transportation.

In most U.S. states, the sale of raw milk is restricted — it can only be purchased directly from farmers — and interstate sales are illegal.

Bird Flu Concerns

Following the 2024 bird flu outbreak among dairy cows, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning against producing or distributing raw milk from infected herds or animals exposed to the virus. The agency confirmed that pasteurisation effectively neutralises the avian influenza virus, making pasteurised milk safe to drink.

A scientific study further showed that the temperature and duration used during standard pasteurisation completely inactivate the virus, underscoring the importance of the process.

Health Experts Urge Caution

Public health authorities continue to urge consumers to choose pasteurised milk and dairy products to prevent potentially life-threatening infections.

“The bottom line is that raw milk is not safe for human consumption,” experts conclude.