Some people drink raw milk without problems, but the FDA warns that drinking raw milk is a dangerous habit.
What’s raw milk?
There’s some variation in raw milk, but it’s basically cow, sheep or goat milk that hasn’t been pasteurized. It’s usually filtered, cooled and bottled from cows fed green grass. Essentially, raw milk hasn’t been processed and may still contain microorganisms like Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria.
The FDA has addressed some myths floating around about pasteurized milk. They say that pasteurization doesn’t reduce the milk’s nutritional value, nor does it cause lactose intolerance or allergic reactions. The FDA also notes that pasteurized milk must still be chilled, despite beliefs it’s safe to leave it out of the refrigerator for an extended period.
What’s true about pasteurization of milk, says the FDA, is that it saves lives and kills harmful bacteria. Pasteurization, invented by Louis Pasteur in 1864, destroys bacteria by heating the liquid to a specific temperature for a set period of time.
Sure, some people who drink raw milk or eat cheese made from raw milk don’t get sick. However, the CDC says that more than 800 people have gotten sick from raw milk in the US since 1998. While raw milk products can be dangerous to anyone, they’re particular concerning for pregnant women, the elderly or people with weakened immune systems. However, most healthy people who develop an illness after consuming raw milk will recover quickly, with only a few developing severe symptoms.
Do you drink raw milk?
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Post from: Blisstree