1A

Pasteurization, Avian Flu, And The Realities Of Drinking Raw Milk

Dec 12, 2024

Join Megan Davis, a molecular epidemiologist from Johns Hopkins, Nicole Martin, a food scientist from Cornell, and Dominic Stetsula, a political communication expert at Ohio State, as they delve into the rising trend of raw milk consumption despite health risks. They discuss the implications of avian flu on milk safety and the regulatory challenges surrounding raw milk sales. The conversation unpacks why people are drawn to raw milk amid skepticism towards experts, as well as the essential need for public health surveillance in the dairy industry.

35:57

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Episode guests

Dominic Stetsula

Nicole Martin

Megan Davis

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The rise in raw milk consumption, increased by over 20%, reflects a growing consumer interest despite significant health risks associated with its pathogens.

The debate around raw milk illustrates a politicization of food choices, with advocates promoting it in opposition to scientific health warnings and regulatory authorities.

Deep dives

Increasing Popularity of Raw Milk

The consumption of raw milk has been on the rise, with weekly sales increasing over 20% compared to the previous year, indicating a growing interest among consumers. This trend is partly influenced by individuals who believe raw milk is healthier and supports local farming through purchasing from farmers' markets and community farms. Despite these beliefs, it is essential to note that raw milk still represents a small fraction of overall milk consumption, with only about 1% of U.S. adults drinking it regularly. The choice to consume raw milk is often tied to personal beliefs about food sourcing and a preference for ‘natural’ products.

Intro

2min

Raw Milk: Trends and Risks

3min

Raw Milk Risks and Regulations

6min

Exploring the Raw Milk Debate and NPR's Public Media Efforts

2min

The Raw Milk Debate: Risks and Roots

12min

The Urgency of Surveillance in Milk Supply and Avian Flu Response

3min

Dairy Dilemmas and Public Perception

11min

Conclusion and Acknowledgments in Food Science Discussion

2min

Pasteurization is the process that rids milk of bacteria. But more people are opting for unpasteurized milk, also known as raw milk. In May, sales of raw milk rose more than 20 percent compared to the year before. That's according to Nielson IQ, a market research firm.

But consuming raw milk comes with significant risks.

In late November, California regulators recalled some raw milk products after detecting bird flu virus. And last week, the USDA ordered testing across the nation's milk supply over bird flu concerns — an issue that began back in March.

Although both the CDC and FDA caution against the consumption of raw milk, the product is being pushed by some right-wing conservatives. One of the most prominent proponents of raw milk is Robert F. Kennedy Jr. — President-elect Donald Trump's pick to serve as secretary for the Department of Health and Human Services.

We discuss why people are drinking raw milk despite the risks.

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1A

Pasteurization, Avian Flu, And The Realities Of Drinking Raw Milk

Episode guests