Why do influencers promote drinking raw milk?

Influencers promote raw milk as a healthier, more natural option that is supposedly easier to digest and contains more nutrients than pasteurized milk.

What are the main health risks associated with drinking raw milk?

Raw milk can harbor dangerous bacteria like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, leading to severe food poisoning and potentially life-threatening conditions such as kidney failure.

Does pasteurization significantly reduce the nutritional value of milk?

No, experts state that pasteurization does not significantly alter the protein, fat, or mineral content of milk, and while there's a slight reduction in vitamin C, milk is not a major source of it.

Home / Health / Raw Milk Trend: Healthier or Hazardous?

Raw Milk Trend: Healthier or Hazardous?

7 Feb

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Summary

Raw milk can harbor dangerous bacteria like E. coli and Listeria.
Pasteurization doesn't significantly reduce milk's nutritional value.
Experts warn raw milk risks outweigh any perceived health benefits.

Influencers are promoting raw milk as a healthier, natural alternative, claiming it contains more nutrients and is easier to digest than pasteurized milk. However, food safety experts and registered dietitians are urging caution.

Experts like Zachary Cartwright and Sam Martin state that while pasteurization might slightly reduce heat-sensitive vitamins, milk is not a primary source of these. They confirm that protein, fat, and mineral content remain largely unchanged by pasteurization. Contrary to popular belief, raw milk does not offer significant advantages for allergies or lactose intolerance.

The primary concern with raw milk is its potential contamination with harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, which can cause severe food poisoning. These pathogens can lead to serious health issues, including HUS, kidney failure, and even death, particularly for pregnant individuals, children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.