The newest study reports the number of outbreaks and outbreak-associated illnesses linked to raw milk over time. The article also compares those numbers in states where the sale of raw milk is legal to states where it is prohibited.
The study found that the number of outbreaks linked to raw milk has increased over time.
+ From 1998 through 2018, 202 outbreaks occurred because of drinking raw milk. These outbreaks caused 2,645 illnesses and 228 hospitalizations.
+ Among illnesses linked to unpasteurized milk that occurred from 2013 through 2018, 48% (325) were among people aged 0–19 years.
+ Areas where raw milk was legally sold had 3.2 times more outbreaks than areas where the sale of raw milk was illegal. Areas where raw milk was allowed to be sold in retail stores had 3.6 times more outbreaks than areas where sale was allowed only on farms.
+ The study shows laws that increase the availability of raw milk are associated with more illnesses and outbreaks.