Bird Flu Virus Found in Milk
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) disclosed on Tuesday.
- The samples of pasteurized milk have revealed traces of the avian flu virus, which has impacted dairy cows.
- Despite this finding, the FDA emphasized that the detected material is rendered inactive and does not pose a direct threat to consumers.
- The agency reiterated their commitment to investigating the matter further.
Remnants of bird flu virus found in pasteurized milk, FDA says https://t.co/LVuvqe0Wv1
— KSAT 12 (@ksatnews) April 24, 2024
Source: Twitter/KSAT12
FDA Affirms Safety of Commercial Milk Supply
According to a statement from the FDA, there is currently no evidence to suggest altering their assessment regarding the safety of the commercial milk supply.
This assurance comes in the wake of the recent detection of the avian influenza virus in dairy cows across multiple states.
The Agriculture Department has reported that a total of 33 herds have been affected thus far.
Ongoing Evaluation and Investigation
The FDA did not disclose specifics regarding the quantity or origin of the samples tested.
Their evaluation of milk encompasses both processing stages and retail locations, with additional test results anticipated in the coming days to weeks.
Lee-Ann Jaykus, an emeritus food microbiologist and virologist at North Carolina State University, explained that the PCR lab test used by the FDA can detect viral genetic material even after the live virus has been neutralized by pasteurization.
Assurance of Safety Measures
Matt Herrick, representing the International Dairy Foods Association, emphasized the stringent time and temperature controls during pasteurization, which ensure the safety of the commercial milk supply in the United States.
He reiterated that remnants of the virus pose no threat to human health.
Background and Context
In March, scientists confirmed the presence of the H5N1 virus in dairy cows following reports of an unusual illness among cattle in Texas.
While most infected cattle typically recover within a two-week period, the virus remains lethal to commercial poultry.
Notably, there have been only two documented cases of bird flu infection in humans in the United States, with both individuals making full recoveries.
Conclusion
The detection of the bird flu virus in milk underscores the importance of continued vigilance and thorough investigation to ensure the safety of the food supply chain.
While the presence of traces in milk samples is concerning, the FDA's assurance of safety measures and ongoing evaluation provides reassurance to consumers.
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