As the H5N1 avian flu virus continues to spread in poultry flocks and dairy cattle, consumers may worry about whether the U.S. milk supply is safe to drink. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the answer is yes, as long as the milk is pasteurized.
In late November 2024, however, California regulators recalled two batches of raw, unpasteurized milk from a Fresno dairy farm after bird flu virus was detected in the milk. The dairy subsequently recalled all of its raw milk and cream products from stores due to possible bird flu contamination. State regulators placed the farm under quarantine, suspending any new distribution of its raw milk, cream, kefir, butter, and cheese products produced on or after November 27.
No human bird flu cases associated with the milk were detected immediately following the recalls. But officials strongly urged buyers not to drink raw milk from the affected ...
