Raw Milk and Food Safety « Back

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about one in six Americans (that's 48 million people) get sick because of foodborne illness each year. When it comes to dairy products, the CDC warns that when consumed raw, “milk and products made from milk (including certain cheeses, ice cream, and yogurt) can pose severe health risks.” That's why milk products need to be pasteurized (or quickly heated) in order to get rid of bacteria and other germs that can lead to illness.

Don't fret, however, because “pasteurization does not significantly change the nutritional value of milk,” according to the CDC. It is still nutrient-rich and contains protein and carbohydrates. Visit the CDC's recently updated Food Safety and Raw Milk site for more information on raw milk.