Raw milk comes with serious risks, including harmful bacteria andvirusesthat can cause severe infections.
It is alsoillegal to sell raw milkin many U.S. states.
What Does the Pasteurization Process Do?
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It also helps extend the milks shelf life by killing germs that cause it to spoil.
Supporters of raw milk believe it can help with digestion, allergies, and even boost your immune system.
But does scientific data support these claims?
The belief is that pasteurization destroys some of the vitamins and minerals naturally found in milk.
The review showed an increase in vitamin A following pasteurization.
More Fatty Acids
Some claim raw milk has more healthy fatty acids than pasteurized milk.
The belief is that the heat used in pasteurization can break down or reduce these beneficial fats.
Raw milk supporters state that keeping the milk unprocessed preserves these natural fats, making it a healthier choice.
Scientists disagree with this for two reasons.
Also, studies have shown that pasteurization has little to no effect on antimicrobials.
Pasteurizing Milk Destroys Proteins
Some people believe that pasteurization also destroys proteins in the milk.
Studies completed in both animals and humans have found that pasteurization doesnt change how milk is digested.
Studies have also determined that the cow immunoglobulins in milk dont help the human immune system.
Up to half of the milk products used had been boiled, which would have pasteurized the milk.
The subjects in the study may also have gained some protection from being exposed to farm animals.
Further research is needed for clarification.
Other studies have shown that children with milk allergies have an allergic reaction to both raw and pasteurized milk.
Milk itself does not contain lactase, and it doesnt contain the good bacteria that will produce lactase.
Prevents Osteoporosis
Some claim that raw milk preventsosteoporosis(progressive bone thinning) better than pasteurized milk.
They believe that raw milk has higher levels of calcium, which can help prevent osteoporosis.
Boosts the Immune System
Some people believe raw milk boosts the immune system better than pasteurized milk.
Because raw milk is not pasteurized, there is no heat treatment to eliminate these harmful bacteria.
Who Should Consider Avoiding Raw Milk?
Some of these bacteria can cause miscarriage, illness, or death.
How Common Are Raw Milk Outbreaks?
Raw milk outbreaks occur much more frequently than outbreaks due to pasteurized milk.
How Long Does Raw Milk Last in the Fridge?
Raw milk has a much shorter shelf life than pasteurized milk, even when stored in the refrigerator.
Typically, raw milk can last about seven days in the refrigerator.
Pasteurized milk has a longer shelf life of 21 to 25 days if properly stored in the refrigerator.
Drinking raw milk can be dangerous as it may contain harmful bacteria that can cause severe illness or death.
Health authorities recommend that everyone avoid raw milk and products made from raw milk.
Pasteurizing makes milk much safer to drink and does not take away its important nutrients.
Pasteurized milk is a safer and healthier choice for most people.
In many states, it is illegal to sell raw milk.
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Healthychildren.org.Raw milk: what parents need to know.
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