On November 14, President-elect Donald Trump announced that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. would be his choice for the next Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
However, some of RFK Jr.’s views, such as his support for raw milk, have raised concerns because they aren’t backed by health experts—and could even be risky.
RFK Jr. recently posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the FDA’s efforts to suppress things like psychedelics, raw milk, and certain health supplements would end under his leadership.
He’s even mentioned that he only drinks raw milk himself. But there’s a growing debate about the safety of raw milk, with some health experts urging people to avoid it altogether.
What Is Raw Milk, Anyway?
Raw milk is just milk that hasn’t been pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that heats milk to kill harmful germs and bacteria. Milk you buy at the store is pasteurized to make sure it’s safe to drink. But raw milk doesn’t go through that process, so it can carry bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause serious illnesses.
The Dangers of Raw Milk
While raw milk might seem like a natural, wholesome option, it can be dangerous. Drinking raw milk puts you at risk for foodborne illnesses, including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and even more serious conditions like kidney failure or sepsis. For certain groups—like young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems—raw milk can be especially dangerous. In extreme cases, it can even be fatal.
Some raw milk supporters claim that it’s healthier or better for digestion, but there’s little scientific proof to back these claims. In fact, pasteurization, which has been used safely for decades, helps eliminate harmful bacteria, making milk safer to drink.
Why Do People Drink Raw Milk?
Despite the risks, some people choose raw milk because they believe it tastes better or is more nutritious. They argue that pasteurization destroys some of the milk’s natural enzymes and nutrients. However, there’s not much evidence to support these ideas, and health experts say pasteurized milk is just as nutritious and much safer.
Are Raw Milk Dairy Products Safe?
What about cheese or butter made from raw milk? While some cheeses are aged to reduce the risks, most experts recommend avoiding raw milk products altogether to stay safe.
The Bottom Line
Even if you trust the farm or the seller, there’s no guarantee that raw milk is safe. Pasteurization is a proven method that helps protect against harmful bacteria, and experts say it’s the best way to keep milk safe to drink. While the debate over raw milk continues, health experts strongly advise against drinking it.
