SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced a statewide recall of all raw milk and cream products produced by Raw Farm LLC due to the potential presence of the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The recall affects all products distributed by the company, prompting officials to urge consumers to immediately discard any affected products.
The CDPH issued the recall after discovering evidence suggesting potential contamination. While the exact details of the contamination source remain undisclosed in the initial announcement, the department stressed the seriousness of the situation and the need for swift action to prevent potential illness.
“The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has recalled all raw milk and cream products from Raw Farm LLC due to possible H5N1 contamination,” the CDPH stated in its official announcement. The department emphasized the importance of consumer awareness and cooperation in ensuring public safety.
The recall specifically targets raw milk and cream products. The CDPH clarified that pasteurized milk remains safe for consumption and is not included in the recall. This distinction highlights the critical difference between raw and pasteurized dairy products and the inherent risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk.
The H5N1 virus, a highly pathogenic avian influenza strain, primarily affects birds. While human infections are rare, they can be severe. The CDPH did not provide specifics on the level of risk associated with consuming the potentially contaminated raw milk and cream products from Raw Farm LLC, but the recall underscores the department's commitment to precautionary measures to protect public health.
Consumers who have purchased raw milk or cream products from Raw Farm LLC are urged to check their refrigerators and discard any affected items immediately. The CDPH did not provide specific details regarding the packaging or labeling of the recalled products, emphasizing the need for consumers to exercise caution and dispose of any raw milk or cream from the company.
The recall is a significant event for the California dairy industry and underscores the importance of food safety regulations. The CDPH did not release information regarding any potential illnesses linked to the consumption of Raw Farm LLC products, but the proactive recall demonstrates a commitment to preventing potential health issues.
The CDPH is working closely with Raw Farm LLC to investigate the source of the potential contamination and implement corrective actions to prevent future incidents. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The department urged consumers with questions or concerns to contact their local health department.
This recall serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with consuming raw dairy products. Pasteurization is a crucial process that eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses, making pasteurized milk a safer alternative. The CDPH's swift action in issuing the recall demonstrates the agency's commitment to protecting public health and preventing potential outbreaks of illness.
Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant about food safety practices and to consult the CDPH website for the latest updates on the recall. The department emphasized the importance of checking labels carefully and discarding any products that may be affected. Further information and updates will be released by the CDPH as the investigation progresses.
The CDPH's announcement concludes with a reiteration of the recall's scope: all raw milk and cream products from Raw Farm LLC are affected. Consumers are advised to exercise caution and prioritize their health and safety by following the recall guidelines.
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