The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued an urgent warning after detecting the bird flu virus in a retail sample of raw milk produced by Raw Farm, LLC, based in Fresno County. The contaminated batch, marked with lot code 20241109 and a “Best By” date of 11/27/2024, has prompted an immediate recall to safeguard public health.
While no illnesses have been reported so far, consumers are being advised to return the product to the retailer or dispose of it immediately. Retailers have also been directed to pull the affected raw milk from their shelves.
This discovery was first made by the Santa Clara Public Health Laboratory, which identified the virus in a retail sample. The findings were later confirmed by the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System.
Public health experts have long warned about the risks associated with raw milk and its products. Unlike pasteurized milk, which undergoes a heat treatment process to eliminate harmful pathogens, raw milk poses a higher risk of contamination from bacteria and viruses, including avian influenza.
Dr. Karen Smith, a public health expert, emphasized the hazards of raw dairy products:
“Outbreaks caused by pathogens such as Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and now bird flu are preventable through pasteurization. Consuming raw milk is a gamble with serious health risks.”
The symptoms of bird flu infection in humans can range from mild to severe and include:
- Eye redness or discharge
- Sore throat, cough, or nasal congestion
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Muscle aches and fatigue
- Difficulty breathing or fever
Even touching raw milk and then touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth without washing hands can lead to infection. Those who have consumed the affected raw milk and experience any symptoms are urged to contact their healthcare provider immediately.
California has implemented rigorous testing of raw milk as part of its bird flu response strategy. Following the detection of the virus in the retail sample, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) tested raw milk at both of Raw Farm’s production facilities. These tests came back negative, but the CDFA has now increased testing frequency for raw milk from once to twice per week.
The discovery comes amid heightened concerns about avian influenza in the state. Weekly testing of bulk raw milk from dairies has been part of California’s preventative measures since bird flu was first detected in local dairy herds.
The process of pasteurization heats milk to specific temperatures to eliminate harmful pathogens, including the bird flu virus. This scientifically proven method has been a cornerstone of food safety for over a century, ensuring milk and milk products are safe for consumption.
The CDPH strongly advises consumers to avoid raw milk and its derivatives due to the significant risk of foodborne illnesses. Pasteurized milk offers a safer, equally nutritious alternative.
This incident follows the first confirmed U.S. case of H5N1 bird flu earlier this year in California. The infected individual, a child, displayed mild symptoms and recovered after treatment. Although subsequent tests revealed no trace of the virus, the case underscored the potential risks associated with avian influenza.
Consumers who purchased the affected batch of raw milk should check the lot code (20241109) and “Best By” date (11/27/2024). If it matches, they should return it to the store or dispose of it immediately.
With the state increasing its surveillance and testing measures, officials hope to prevent further contamination and ensure consumer safety. However, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with consuming raw dairy products.
For now, health officials urge vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines to minimize risks and protect public health.
