Report

A recent study by Stanford University uncovers hidden risks associated with raw milk, commonly promoted as a healthy alternative to pasteurized milk. The research found that the influenza virus can remain infectious in refrigerated raw milk for up to five days, raising concerns about potential transmission through consumption. The study underscores the importance of pasteurization in preventing such risks.

Health Risks of Raw Milk in the United States

In the United States, over 14 million people consume raw milk annually, which is not heated to kill harmful pathogens like pasteurized milk. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has linked raw milk to over 200 outbreaks of illness, warning that it can carry dangerous pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella. These pathogens pose serious risks, especially to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women.

Growing Concerns About Raw Milk Safety in India

Similarly, in India, concerns about food safety related to raw milk are on the rise, with increasing reports of milk adulteration and contamination across several states. Since milk is a staple in Indian diets, these safety risks are particularly troubling, especially with the potential for zoonotic diseases like bird flu. Experts in India have also warned against giving raw milk to children, as it may harbour harmful bacteria and increase the risk of infections from pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria.

Flu Virus Persistence in Raw Milk and the Role of Pasteurization

The study found that influenza virus RNA remained detectable in raw milk for at least 57 days. In contrast, pasteurization destroyed the infectious virus and reduced viral RNA by nearly 90%. This highlights the need for improved monitoring systems, especially as bird flu continues to spread among livestock globally, including in India. Recent outbreaks of bird flu in poultry and cattle have raised concerns about its potential transmission through milk and dairy products.

Advancing Zoonotic Disease Monitoring Methods

Additionally, the research builds on previous work detecting avian influenza in wastewater, offering a new way to monitor zoonotic diseases. This innovative method could prove valuable for public health surveillance in both the U.S. and India, where increasing outbreaks of diseases like bird flu call for enhanced detection and response strategies.

Source: The Hindustan Times