In a statement released on Tuesday, the FDA stated that the findings of the bird flu virus remnants in pasteurized milk samples do not represent an actual virus that poses a risk to consumers. The agency stressed that the detected material is inactivated and does not pose a threat to the safety of the commercial milk supply. The FDA is conducting further studies and monitoring the situation closely.
The announcement comes after an avian influenza virus, which has been impacting wild and commercial birds, was detected in dairy cows in eight U.S. states. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that approximately 33 herds have been affected to date.
The FDA did not disclose the number of samples tested or their source. Lee-Ann Jaykus, an emeritus food microbiologist and virologist at North Carolina State University, explained that the lab test used could detect viral genetic material even after live virus was eliminated during the pasteurization process.
Jaykus emphasizes that there is no evidence to suggest that the detected material is an infectious virus. The FDA is actively investigating the situation to ensure the safety of the milk supply and protect consumers’ health.
The FDA continues to advise consumers that the commercial milk supply remains safe and that there is no need for concern regarding the recent findings of bird flu virus remnants in pasteurized milk samples.
