H5N1 Avian Influenza Detected in Milk, but FDA Assures Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has detected viral particles of H5N1 avian influenza in milk purchased at grocery stores, but the agency maintains that the milk supply remains safe for consumption. The FDA believes the viral particles found in milk samples are remnants of viruses killed during the pasteurization process. However, additional tests are being conducted to confirm the viability of the viruses. The FDA continues to recommend against consuming unpasteurized or raw milk due to potential health risks.

FDA Detects H5N1 in Milk Supply, Assures Safety After Pasteurization

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified genetic evidence of H5N1 avian influenza in the nation’s milk supply through testing. However, the agency emphasizes that its tests cannot determine if the contamination originated from a live virus or remnants that had been destroyed during pasteurization. Despite the presence of HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) traces detected via qPCR testing, the FDA maintains the safety of the U.S. milk supply due to effective pasteurization practices and stringent measures to prevent contaminated milk from entering the supply chain.

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