This might sound a bit sketchy, but believe it - unpasteurized milk often beats its pasteurized version when it comes to popularity. Unpasteurized or raw milk's growing popularity is fueled by claims of enhanced nutrition, benefits for allergies and asthma, and a perceived natural, unprocessed approach - claiming it to be a "complete, natural food" - despite the risks of foodborne illnesses associated with the same.

Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detected H5N1 bird flu in raw milk samples from several states in the U.S., many Americans still remain unaware of the health risks associated with consuming raw milk, especially for children.


What is raw milk?

Unpasteurized milk, also known as raw milk, is milk that hasn't undergone pasteurization, a process that heats milk to kill harmful bacteria and pathogens, and is therefore at a higher risk of containing harmful germs.

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prohibits the interstate sale of unpasteurized milk, individual states regulate its intrastate sale, with many allowing it under certain conditions and some even legalizing it for human consumption.

More than half of U.S. adults, about 56 percent, understand that raw milk is less safe than pasteurized milk. However, a significant portion of the population remains uncertain.

Around 25% are unsure about the safety difference, while 12% believe raw milk is just as safe as pasteurized milk. 6% think raw milk is actually safer, according to a survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC).


Should children be consuming raw milk?

A concerning survey finding reveals that about 66 percent of respondents are unaware that children face higher risks from consuming raw milk. This lack of awareness can lead to serious health consequences. As per Patrick E. Jamieson, director of APPC’s Annenberg Health and Risk Communication Institute, “Consuming raw milk and raw milk products can make you sick, and pasteurization significantly reduces the risk of milk-borne illnesses. It’s a good practice to look for the pasteurization label before buying or consuming milk or milk products, such as cheese.”


Bird flu cases linked to raw milk and poultry:

As of March 10, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 70 cases of H5 bird flu across 13 states. Most of these infections are linked to exposure to infected poultry or dairy herds. Tragically, one person in Louisiana has died from the virus. Currently, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.

Since January 2022, bird flu has impacted nearly 1,000 dairy herds in 17 states and has infected over 166 million poultry and wild birds.

According to global data from the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been 954 cases of human avian flu infections reported between 2003 and December 2024, resulting in 464 fatalities.


Risk of bird flu in raw milk:

The majority of U.S. adults are unaware that bird flu has only been detected in raw milk. Only 17 percent correctly recognize this fact, while 68 percent remain uncertain. Some individuals mistakenly believe that bird flu has been found in pasteurized milk or in both types of milk.

Scientists have discovered that mice can contract bird flu by drinking raw milk, raising concerns about potential transmission to humans. Although the FDA has not confirmed whether the H5N1 virus can spread to humans through raw milk, studies suggest there may be a risk. The National Institutes of Health states that untreated milk containing the virus could infect those who consume it.



Side effects of raw milk:

Consuming raw milk carries significant health risks due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria and viruses, leading to illnesses like diarrhea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even paralysis or kidney failure.

Common Symptoms of Foodborne Illness from Raw Milk:

Gastrointestinal Issues: Diarrhea (sometimes bloody), stomach cramps, and vomiting are common symptoms.

Flu-like Symptoms: Fever, headache, and body aches can also occur.

Dehydration: Severe diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous, especially for young children and the elderly.

Severe Health Outcomes:

Guillain-Barré Syndrome: In some cases, raw milk consumption can lead to this condition, which can cause paralysis.

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): This syndrome can result in kidney failure, stroke, and even death.

Meningitis: While less common, raw milk can also cause meningitis.

Long-term health problems: Some individuals may develop chronic health conditions after consuming raw milk.

Specific Germs Found in Raw Milk:

Bacteria: Raw milk can harbor various bacteria, including Campylobacter, Listeria, Salmonella, E. coli O157, and Brucella.

Viruses: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) has been found in dairy cattle and milk, posing a potential risk.

Other Pathogens: Cryptosporidium and other pathogens can also be present in raw milk.