The Florida Department of Health has issued an update on raw milk availability in the Northeast and Central Florida regions, highlighting recent public health concerns linked to its consumption.
Raw milk is defined as milk from cows, sheep, goats, or other animals that has not been pasteurized. Pasteurization is a heat-treatment process designed to destroy potentially harmful bacteria. In Florida, regulations allow raw milk to be sold only for non-human consumption as pet or animal food. State law requires containers of raw milk to have clear labels indicating it is for animal use only.
Despite these restrictions, some consumers report perceived benefits from drinking raw milk, such as improved taste and possible protective effects against asthma and allergies. However, health officials warn that consuming raw milk can carry risks due to potential contamination with bacteria like Campylobacter, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Listeria, and Salmonella. These pathogens can cause gastrointestinal illnesses with symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
The department’s latest advisory follows ongoing cases of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections traced to Keely Farms Dairy in New Smyrna Beach, Volusia County. Since January 24, 2025, there have been 21 reported cases associated with this farm’s raw milk products. Among those affected are six children under the age of ten; seven individuals required hospitalization and at least two suffered severe complications.
“Sanitation practices in this farm are of concern due to the number of cases,” the department stated in its update.
Officials noted that STEC bacteria can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition involving hemolysis and kidney failure—particularly dangerous for children. Other groups at higher risk include pregnant women, elderly people, infants and young children, as well as those with weakened immune systems.
“The Florida Department of Health will continue working with Keely Farms Dairy to ensure that effective sanitation practices are implemented consistently across every batch.”
The department urges Floridians to carefully consider these risks when deciding whether to consume raw milk: “Floridians are encouraged to use this information to make informed decisions about their health and sources of raw milk should they choose to consume it.”
According to the agency’s mission statement: “The department… works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.”
More information on public health topics can be found at www.FloridaHealth.gov.
