2025/7/28 Edited to

... Read moreRaw milk, often promoted as a natural and probiotic-rich alternative to pasteurized milk, actually carries significant health risks that are frequently underestimated or misunderstood. Scientific studies indicate that raw milk contains minimal beneficial lactic acid bacteria while acting as a reservoir for antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), which can be amplified by spontaneous fermentation. This is a crucial concern because ARGs present in raw milk contribute to the growing global issue of antibiotic resistance, posing serious public health threats. Consuming raw milk exposes individuals to pathogenic bacteria such as Campylobacter jejuni, which has been linked to severe conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome. Unlike the microbiota in healthy cows, human infections caused by these bacteria can lead to paralysis and other life-threatening complications. Furthermore, raw milk may harbor bacteria that are resistant to multiple antibiotics, increasing the difficulty of treatment in cases of infection. Another notable risk of raw milk consumption is the potential transmission of brucellosis, particularly when dairy products originate from asymptomatic livestock carriers. Brucellosis can result in severe and chronic complications, including endocarditis. Multiple epidemiological reports from countries like Spain and Israel have confirmed brucellosis outbreaks connected to raw milk and raw cheese consumption. The fact that raw milk bacteria do not distribute evenly and may co-locate with the milk fat phase complicates detection and testing. This uneven distribution means that even if tests show raw milk to be pathogen-free at one point, pathogens may still be present at infectious doses. Thus, standard tests are not fully reliable in guaranteeing safety. In summary, despite popular claims that raw milk is healthy if it comes from healthy cows or has been tested, scientific evidence strongly suggests otherwise. The risks of infection, antibiotic resistance, and severe illness far outweigh any perceived benefits. Public awareness and accurate information based on ongoing microbiological research are essential to dispel dangerous myths and protect public health from the hidden dangers lurking in raw milk.