Iowa’s Raw Milk Revolution-Is It Safe to Drink?

Under a new bill advancing in the Iowa House, raw milk could soon be sold in a grocery store near you.

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that in 2023, Iowa joined other states in allowing small producers to sell unpasteurized milk. Dairy farmers in Iowa can sell raw milk and other products directly to consumers from their farms. But that could soon change thanks to the Iowa Legislature.

What is 'Raw' Milk?

Raw milk is also called unpasteurized milk. It has not gone through the pasteurization process, which heats the milk up to kill harmful bacteria and other pathogens. That means that raw milk could contain germs that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Young children, pregnant women, and the elderly are especially at risk.

Where Would 'Raw' Milk Be Sold if a New Law is Passed?

The Gazette reports that under House Study Bill 222, raw milk and all related products could be sold at grocery stores and at farmers' markets. The bill would require the container holding the raw milk to be sanitized.

What Are the Health Concerns from Consuming Raw Milk?

Health officials state that raw milk can be tainted with dangerous bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, according to the Gazette. Other lawmakers cite the dangers of the bird flu outbreak in Iowa. Could the bird flu jump to humans, and could raw milk be the way it happens? The Gazette reports that organizations against raw milk include the Iowa State Dairy Association, Iowa Public Health Association, Iowa Veterinary Medical Association, Iowa Environmental Health Association, and Iowa Grocery Industry Association.

What are the Benefits of Raw Milk?

The Gazette reports that proponents of raw milk cite consumer freedom and the health benefits for some people. Lawmakers heard testimony from raw milk producers that their product is easier to digest than pasteurized milk. The only group that has come out in support of expanding the sale of raw milk is Iowans for Freedom and Americans for Prosperity.

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