The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a warning on Sunday urging consumers to avoid consuming raw milk from a specific lot produced by Raw Farm, LLC, after bird flu was detected in a retail sample.

At the CDPH’s request, the Fresno County-based company initiated a voluntary recall of the affected product: cream-top, whole raw milk from lot No. 20241109, marked with a “best by” date of November 27. Consumers are advised to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Retailers have also been notified to remove the affected items from their shelves to prevent further distribution.

While the ongoing bird flu outbreak has primarily affected individuals working directly with birds or livestock, no human cases have been linked to raw milk consumption. However, public health officials reiterated the established risks associated with raw milk, which does not undergo pasteurization—a process that eliminates harmful pathogens.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has long warned of the dangers of raw milk. In a previous statement from May 2024, the FDA highlighted the risks, stating, “Raw milk can carry dangerous germs such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Campylobacter, and others that cause foodborne illness, often called ‘food poisoning.’”

Pasteurization effectively kills pathogens, including those associated with bird flu, making pasteurized dairy products safe for consumption.

The CDPH advises consumers to check their purchases and dispose of any raw milk from the affected lot to avoid potential health risks.