Florida Surgeon General backs raw milk as health officials probe E. coli outbreak

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (CBS12) — Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo has voiced support for the consumption of raw milk, emphasizing personal freedom and informed decision-making. His comments come as state health officials investigate a cluster of infections linked to unpasteurized dairy.

“Floridians have the freedom to make informed health choices,” Ladapo wrote on X. “I support the decision to consume raw milk when sought for potential health benefits and protective factors. Be aware of your source and know the risks.”

21 Cases Linked to Raw Milk

The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) has confirmed 21 cases of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections tied to raw milk from a single farm in Northeast and Central Florida. Six of those affected were children under the age of 10, and seven individuals required hospitalization. At least two cases involved severe complications, including hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can lead to kidney failure.

The Florida Department of Health identified Keely Farms Dairy as the source of concern, citing sanitation issues linked to the reported cases. Raw milk is legally sold in Florida only for non-human consumption, such as pet food, which limits regulatory oversight.

Understanding the Risks

Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized—a process that kills harmful bacteria by heating the milk to a specific temperature. Without pasteurization, raw milk can carry:

• E. coli
• Campylobacter
• Listeria
• Salmonella

These pathogens can cause gastrointestinal illness, kidney complications, and in rare cases, death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Children, pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised people are especially vulnerable.

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While some consumers believe raw milk offers health benefits such as improved taste or protection against allergies, public health agencies, including the CDC and FDA, maintain that pasteurized milk provides the same nutritional value without the risks.

The FDOH stated in an update on August 4, “Floridians should be aware of potential risks associated with consumption, which may vary depending on the source of milk.”

As the investigation continues, health officials urge residents to make informed decisions and remain cautious — especially following rising cases and ongoing concerns about foodborne illness.

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