While social media can be a great source of information, it can also spread misinformation. And lately, your social media feed may be full of influencers touting the benefits of drinking raw milk. However, it’s essential to verify the information that you see online before engaging in dangerous behavior, such as drinking raw milk or giving raw milk to your child.

“Your pediatrician is an excellent, trusted source of information, and we would always rather you ask us before trying something you read on the internet,” says Lauren Rechtman, MD, pediatrician at Children’s National Pediatricians and Associates (CNPA) Silver Spring. “We can also provide you with trusted online resources so that you have reputable websites to search for information as necessary.”

First, what is raw milk?

Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that heats milk to a specific temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Without this process, raw milk and unpasteurized milk products can contain dangerous germs such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria and Campylobacter.

Is raw milk healthier than pasteurized milk?

No, raw milk is not healthier than pasteurized milk. Pasteurization does not significantly affect the nutritional value of milk. It simply makes milk safer to drink by eliminating harmful bacteria.

“Pasteurized milk provides essential nutrients that are critical for bone development and growth, including calcium and vitamin D. Pasteurized milk is also a good source of protein, vitamin A and zinc,” says Dr. Rechtman. “Starting at 12 months of age, it is recommended that children drink up to 16 ounces of whole pasteurized milk per day. Children 2 years and older should drink up to 16 ounces of reduced-fat or nonfat pasteurized milk.”

Why is raw milk dangerous?

Drinking raw milk can lead to serious health issues, including foodborne illnesses. These illnesses can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In severe cases, they can lead to hospitalization or death, especially for vulnerable groups like children, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Can you get the bird flu from drinking raw milk?

Yes. While bird flu primarily spreads through direct contact with infected birds, there have been instances where the virus was detected in raw milk from infected dairy cows. By choosing pasteurized milk, you protect yourself and your family from potential infections, including bird flu.

How can I ensure my child’s milk is safe?

Always choose pasteurized milk for your family. Pasteurized milk has been heated to a temperature that kills harmful bacteria, making it safe to drink.

What should I do if my child drinks raw milk and feels sick?

Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea or abdominal pain after drinking raw milk could indicate a foodborne illness.

Dr. Rechtman says to call your pediatrician if your child’s vomiting lasts more than 2 to 3 days, they are going to the bathroom less than 3 to 4 times per day or if there is blood in their diarrhea or vomit. “Seek emergency medical care for decreased alertness or confusion. It is never wrong to call your pediatrician with any concerns, and they can help guide your next steps,” she says.

What are some common myths about raw milk?

There are several myths surrounding raw milk that contribute to the belief that it is healthier:

• Myth: Raw milk contains probiotics and beneficial bacteria that support gut health. While raw milk does contain bacteria, many of these can be harmful. The beneficial bacteria found in raw milk are not worth the risk of consuming dangerous pathogens.
• Myth: Raw milk is safe if it comes from a clean farm. Even milk from the cleanest farms can contain harmful bacteria. Pasteurization is the only reliable method to ensure that milk is safe to drink.
• Myth: Drinking pasteurized milk can cause lactose intolerance. Both raw and pasteurized milk contain the same concentration of lactose. Lactose intolerance is caused by a lack of the enzyme needed to digest lactose, not by the pasteurization process.

All in all, drinking raw milk poses significant risks, and it’s crucial to choose pasteurized milk to avoid serious illnesses. Always consult your pediatrician for reliable health advice.