Flumeric cases of illness reported among Florida residents confirming consumption of raw milk sourced from a single farm
Raw milk, unpasteurized and unregulated for human consumption in Florida, has been linked to numerous health risks and outbreaks. From 1998 to 2018, there were 202 foodborne illness outbreaks in the US linked to raw milk, affecting nearly 2,700 people and hospitalizing over 220 [1][2].
The Florida Department of Health (FLDOH) provides information to aid residents in making informed decisions about their health. However, the department does not explicitly warn against drinking raw milk, due to the milk being sold for non-human use [1][5]. This loophole in regulation can increase the risk of contaminated products reaching consumers [1][5].
Raw milk can contain dangerous pathogens, such as Campylobacter, Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC), Listeria, and Salmonella, since it does not undergo pasteurization [2][5]. These pathogens have been linked to outbreaks and severe illnesses, including the recent Florida outbreak tied to one farm that sickened 21 people (seven hospitalized) with Campylobacter and E. coli infections [1][2][5].
STEC infections are particularly dangerous because they produce shiga toxin, which blocks protein creation in cells, causing cells to self-destruct [3]. This can lead to a condition known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can be life-threatening [3].
Public-health agencies, including the FLDOH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), warn that young children, pregnant people, older adults, and immunocompromised persons are at higher risk for severe outcomes [2][1]. These can include dehydration, kidney failure (e.g., HUS from STEC), miscarriage, and death [2][1].
Officials note that producer handling and on-farm sanitation are critical to preventing contamination, and poor practices have been implicated in outbreaks [1][5]. The ongoing epidemiological investigation into the Florida outbreak does not name the farm involved [6].
The CDC encourages consumers to choose pasteurized milk and dairy products for safety reasons [4]. Practical steps to reduce the risk of foodborne illness include choosing pasteurized products, ensuring safe handling practices, and following food safety guidelines [7].
The US Department of Agriculture will begin testing raw milk stored in dairy silos across the country in response to the increasing presence of H5N1 [8]. Despite concerns and ongoing health risks, some individuals, such as US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have expressed support for raw milk [9].
In light of these risks, the FLDOH warns that raw milk consumption carries known risks [6]. The department also expresses concerns about continued recent cases due to concerns about sanitation practices on the farm [6].
- Consuming raw milk, which lacks pasteurization and is unregulated for human consumption in Florida, is a lifestyle choice linked to numerous health risks and outbreaks, such as Campylobacter, Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC), Listeria, and Salmonella infections.
- The health-and-wellness community should be aware that STEC infections, found in raw milk, produce shiga toxin that can block protein creation in cells and lead to severe illnesses, including hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can be life-threatening.
- To ensure food safety and minimize health risks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorses the consumption of pasteurized milk and dairy products, and encourages following food safety guidelines that focus on choice, handling practices, and general-news updates on sanitation concerns in the food-and-drink industry.
