A California farm has taken swift action to protect consumers after state health and agriculture officials discovered the presence of the bird flu virus in multiple samples of raw milk. Raw Farm, based in Fresno, has voluntarily expanded its recall to include all whole milk and cream products produced between Nov. 9 and Nov. 27.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture has placed a quarantine on the farm and suspended the distribution of various dairy products, including raw milk, cream, kefir, butter, and cheese, produced on or after Nov. 27. Consumers are strongly advised against consuming any raw milk or cream products from Raw Farm.
While no cases of bird flu virus transmission through raw milk consumption have been confirmed in humans, health officials emphasize the importance of avoiding such products. Pasteurized milk, which undergoes heat treatment to eliminate harmful pathogens, remains a safe option for consumers.
Pet owners are also urged to refrain from feeding Raw Farm products labeled as “pet food topper” or “pet food kefir” to their animals, as exposure to contaminated raw milk can lead to severe illness and even death in pets.
The farm owner, Mark McAfee, has expressed concerns over what he perceives as excessive regulation of raw milk. Despite the recall, Raw Farm officials are working diligently to address the situation and restore their supply chain.
Health officials have long cautioned against the consumption of raw milk due to the potential health risks associated with harmful germs. The recent detection of the bird flu virus in U.S. dairy cows underscores the importance of stringent food safety measures.
Efforts to address the political and regulatory aspects of raw milk distribution are ongoing, with promises of potential policy changes at the federal level. The Food and Drug Administration's approach to unpasteurized milk may see modifications in the future, according to statements from key figures in the industry.
