Despite significant advancements in food safety processes and awareness in recent years, the raw milk movement has also gained momentum. Public health advocates have consistently warned against the consumption of unpasteurized dairy products, with the FDA strongly opposing their use. Federal regulations prohibit the interstate sale of raw milk products, allowing each state to establish its own laws regarding local sale and consumption. Proponents of raw milk argue that these products offer superior taste, fewer allergic reactions, and can even cure illnesses—claims that remain anecdotal and unverified. However, as consumer interest in natural and local foods rises, the appeal of raw milk continues to expand. According to the National Council of State Legislatures, only 19 states do not permit some form of raw milk sales or distribution. Certain states mandate that products be labeled as unpasteurized, while others restrict sales to dairy farms.
It remains uncertain whether anything can curtail the rising popularity of raw milk, aside from outright bans by states and localities. While advocates promote its supposed benefits, numerous accounts highlight its potential risks. A recent CDC study sheds light on the dangers associated with raw milk consumption, adding to a growing list of alarming reports. In March, two individuals tragically lost their lives after consuming artisanal raw milk cheese from upstate New York that was tainted with listeria, leading to six hospitalizations.
Last year, West Virginia enacted legislation permitting herd sharing, enabling multiple individuals to co-own cows for access to raw milk. Some lawmakers celebrated this bill’s passage by toasting with raw milk, only to fall ill shortly thereafter. Meanwhile, many consumers are increasingly seeking supplements like nature made calcium citrate with magnesium to support their health, underscoring the ongoing debate between traditional dairy practices and modern nutritional needs. As the raw milk movement thrives, the importance of informed decision-making regarding food safety and health remains paramount.