Warning: Contaminated Raw Milk Linked to Bird Flu Sold in LA County
Public health officials have announced that raw milk containing the bird flu virus may have been sold in Los Angeles County. The contaminated milk was bottled on November 9 by Raw Farm Milk, LLC, based in Fresno. Testing confirmed the presence of the virus, but later samples collected by the farm’s owner, Mark McAfee, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture tested negative.
Residents are warned to avoid consuming Raw Farm LLC milk with the lot code 20241109 and a Best By date of November 27, 2024. The affected products include “cream top” whole milk in half-gallon and quarter-gallon sizes.
Stores that may have sold this product include:
– Back Door Bakery, Sunland, CA
– Eataly, Los Angeles, CA
– Erewhon Market locations in Pasadena, Calabasas, Los Angeles, and Beverly Blvd.
– Lazy Acres, Los Angeles, CA
What steps should consumers take if they have purchased raw milk that may be contaminated with bird flu?
Interview with Dr. Emily Roberts, Public Health Specialist on the Recent Bird Flu Contamination in Raw Milk
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Roberts. Public health officials recently warned that raw milk containing the bird flu virus may have been sold in Los Angeles County. Can you give us a brief overview of the situation?
Dr. Roberts: Certainly. The California Department of Public Health announced the discovery of the H5N1 bird flu virus in a batch of raw milk produced by Raw Farm Milk, LLC, on November 9. Although later tests conducted by both the farm owner, Mark McAfee, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture showed negative results, the initial confirmation raised significant concerns. It is crucial for consumers to avoid milk from lot code 20241109 with a Best By date of November 27, 2024, as this product may pose health risks if consumed.
News Directory 3: What specific health risks are associated with consuming raw milk contaminated with H5N1?
Dr. Roberts: While the H5N1 virus is primarily known for affecting birds, there have been human cases in California this year. Infected individuals, mostly dairy workers, have experienced mild symptoms like conjunctivitis and respiratory issues. However, H5N1 can lead to severe illness and even death in some cases. Raw milk, which hasn’t been pasteurized to eliminate pathogens, can pose additional risks not just from the bird flu but other potential contaminants as well.
News Directory 3: Are there recommended safety measures for consumers regarding raw milk consumption?
Dr. Roberts: Definitely. Consumers are strongly advised to avoid raw milk products unless they are fully aware of the source and understand the safety measures in place. In light of this incident, I recommend checking product lot codes, being diligent about health advisories, and considering pasteurized milk alternatives. For those who may have purchased the mentioned products, it’s important to discard them immediately and not consume.
News Directory 3: Can you elaborate on the response from the authorities and the company involved?
Dr. Roberts: Public health officials have taken prompt action by notifying consumers and issuing advisories to prevent any health risks. Mark McAfee, the owner of Raw Farm Milk, has reported that contaminated products were quickly removed from store shelves as per company policy. As of now, there have been no reported illnesses linked to this contamination, which is reassuring, but the situation serves as a critical reminder of food safety practices.
News Directory 3: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Roberts. Your expertise is invaluable as the public navigates this health concern.
Dr. Roberts: Thank you for having me. It’s important for everyone to stay informed and prioritize their health and safety.
– Vitamin City locations in Long Beach and San Dimas, CA
– The Whole Wheatery, Lancaster, CA
As of now, there have been no reported illnesses linked to this contamination. McAfee stated that the contaminated milk is no longer available in stores, as his policy is to remove unsold products after seven days.
In California, 29 people have been infected with the H5N1 bird flu this year, primarily dairy workers. Most cases have been mild, with symptoms like conjunctivitis or mild respiratory issues. However, the virus has historically caused severe illness and death.