The Risks and Benefits of Drinking Raw Milk
The Chronify
Recently, more than 20 people fell ill after consuming raw milk produced at a farm in Florida, USA. The group included children, and several were hospitalized in serious condition. Tests revealed the presence of E. coli and Campylobacter bacteria in their systems.
Social media can be partly blamed for this incident. Nowadays, especially on TikTok, many people claim that raw milk is far more beneficial than pasteurized milk.
Even U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has stated that he consumes raw milk, claiming, "Raw milk is beneficial for human health."
However, health experts disagree, warning that raw milk can be extremely hazardous to health.
Difference Between Raw Milk and Pasteurized Milk
Raw milk refers to milk that has not been pasteurized that is, milk sold directly from the farm to the market. In contrast, pasteurized milk is heated to a high temperature for a short period and then quickly cooled.
Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria in the milk. This method was developed in the early 1900s. Most milk available in stores is pasteurized. While selling raw milk is not illegal in Bangladesh, this does not mean it is safe.
Even if farm storage and hygiene are well maintained, harmful bacteria can still remain in raw milk. The health of the cows or the cleanliness of the farm does not guarantee safety. All raw milk carries the potential risk of dangerous bacteria. For this reason, drinking pasteurized milk is the safest choice.
