Health Influencer Sparks Controversy Advocating Raw Milk for Infants

Representation for Raw Milk | Credits: Reuters
Representation for Raw Milk | Credits: Reuters

United States: Renowned health influencer Dr Paul Saladino stirred controversy when he posted a video on his X account advocating for the introduction of “unprocessed dairy” into infants’ diets on May 7. Despite amassing an impressive 90,000 views, the video faced intense backlash, prompting its removal the following day. 

Dr Saladino, known for promoting animal-derived diets, particularly raw milk, boasts a TikTok following of over half a million.

The surge of interest in raw milk in the United States owes to wellness enthusiasts and conservative figures on social media. Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow have endorsed its benefits, according to CBS News.

However, health authorities consistently warn against raw dairy due to potentially harmful microorganisms. The American Academy of Pediatrics specifically advises against it, highlighting risks for infants, children, and pregnant women.

Dr Nidhi Kumar, in a recent statement to CBS New York, strongly discouraged raw dairy consumption, emphasizing current risks. The FDA and CDC intensified warnings after bird flu outbreaks on dairy farms.

Raw milk was common until the late 19th century, when pasteurization became widespread due to outbreaks. Legislation followed, banning interstate sales in the late 1980s, with some states outlawing sales entirely.

Despite regulations, raw milk retains a niche following. Approximately 4.4% of Americans reported consuming it in recent FDA surveys.

In recent years, interest surged, with six states legalizing sales since 2020. Raw milk is available across various states, from Georgia markets to upscale California stores. Google Trends data shows increased interest.

This acceptance coincides with declining public trust in CDC guidance, exacerbated by COVID-19, and aligns with organic food sector growth.

Social media influencers claim raw milk retains lost health benefits, a contention disputed by experts. Dr Saladino declined to comment on the removal of his video. TikTok videos promoting raw milk gained millions of views, prompting counter-content by medical professionals like Hank Greene.

CrowdTangle data shows positive portrayals of raw milk. Similarly, Truth Social users downplayed reports of animal fatalities from infected cows’ milk.

Public health authorities strongly advise against raw milk consumption, citing risks of foodborne illnesses like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

Representation for dairy farm | Credits: Bloomberg

The FDA refuted claims that pasteurization reduces milk’s nutritional value or triggers lactose intolerance. Officials reiterate warnings amid recent bird flu outbreaks.

While not banning milk from infected herds, officials caution against selling it. They recommend pasteurization before sale, confirming its efficacy against the virus.

The FDA detected H5N1 in raw milk from infected herds across nine states. Investigations into transmission mechanisms are ongoing.

Cats drinking raw milk from infected cows succumbed to H5N1 effects. Only one US individual contracted the virus, showing mild symptoms. The CDC rates public risk as low but emphasizes vigilance due to the virus’s pandemic potential.