Physicians urge U.S. ban on raw milk amid rising illness outbreaks
The American Academy of Pediatrics has called for a nationwide prohibition on unpasteurized milk as disease outbreaks linked to the product increase.
Increasing popularity of raw milk has coincided with several disease outbreaks, leading the American Academy of Pediatrics to urge a federal ban on its sale. While influencers and some public figures have promoted raw milk for alleged health advantages, the FDA and medical community argue that no evidence supports claims of allergy relief or immune benefits and stress the heightened risk of bacterial infection. Raw milk sales grew by 17.6% in 2024, and a recent outbreak affected more than 100 consumers, resulting in 11 hospitalizations, primarily among children under three.
Experts such as infectious disease specialist Brian Dawes emphasize the danger to young children with weaker immune systems. Producers like Creambrook Farm in Virginia defend safety through laboratory testing, but public health leaders call for stronger regulation to restore confidence in milk safety.
Why it matters
Raw milk illnesses threaten public health, especially for children, and could prompt new federal regulations.
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