Raw milk poses significant health risks, especially for children

Raw milk, which is unpasteurized, is becoming more popular despite its health risks, including foodborne illnesses. The FDA has found bird flu in raw milk samples, raising concerns about safety, especially for children. A recent survey shows that many Americans are unaware of the dangers of raw milk. While 56% recognize it is less safe than pasteurized milk, 66% do not know that children are at higher risk from consuming it. As of March 10, 2025, the CDC has reported 70 cases of bird flu linked to infected poultry and dairy herds. Raw milk can contain harmful bacteria and viruses, leading to serious health issues, including severe gastrointestinal symptoms and long-term complications.