Health Risks of Raw Milk Highlighted by Specialist

A gastroenterologist at Manipal Hospital has raised alarms about the consumption of raw milk, labeling it highly risky. Many believe that raw milk offers health benefits, but experts counter that claim. Raw milk is unpasteurized, leaving it vulnerable to harmful bacteria that can trigger serious health issues.

Dr Sambit Bhuyan, who practices in Bhubaneswar, emphasized that all milk from cows, goats, and sheep should undergo pasteurization to ensure safety. This process involves heating the milk to eliminate dangerous pathogens. By skipping pasteurization, raw milk becomes a health hazard.

Authorities have noted that raw milk can harbor lethal pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Campylobacter, and even Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These microorganisms can lead to severe foodborne illnesses, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and muscle aches. In some cases, these infections can prove fatal.

Dr Bhuyan specifically cautioned that raw milk presents significant dangers for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. This group includes those with chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, or organ transplant recipients, who are at higher risk of severe complications from the bacteria found in raw milk.

Additionally, Dr Bhuyan pointed out the specific risks for pregnant women. Consumption of raw milk can lead to complications, including miscarriage, premature birth, or underweight infants, largely due to the presence of Listeria.

Despite the perception that raw milk contains more nutrients, Dr Bhuyan maintains that the potential health hazards far outweigh any purported benefits. Safe consumption of milk is guaranteed only through pasteurization.

The conclusion drawn by the doctor is clear: the dangers of raw milk are too significant to ignore. Opting for pasteurized milk is the smartest choice to reap the health benefits without compromising safety.