Public health officials in Southern Nevada are warning the public about the illegal sale of unpasteurized, raw milk.
The Southern Nevada Health District posted the warning on September 4 after discovering raw milk on store shelves.
“The sale of raw milk and its products is illegal in Clark County due to serious health concerns. SNHD advises residents to consume only pasteurized milk, which has been treated to eliminate pathogens that can cause serious illness,” the health district warning said.
“Raw milk can be contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, brucella and Campylobacter, all of which can lead to serious health complications or even death. Some groups are particularly vulnerable to these diseases, including children under 5, older adults over 65, pregnant people and people with weakened immune systems.”
Pasteurization of milk kills dangerous bacteria while preserving milk’s health benefits.
When the health district discovers that raw milk is being sold, the milk is confiscated and thrown away. Repeated violations may result in enforcement actions, including the possible revocation of health permits.
Anyone who sees raw milk being sold for human consumption in Clark County is encouraged to report it by calling the Nevada Department of Agriculture at 775-353-3607. Anyone who becomes ill after consuming raw milk should call 702-759-1300 or file a report through Foodborne illness complaint form. The health district strongly advises the public not to consume raw milk from any animal.
For more information about raw milk and its associated health risks, visit the FDA website: Misconceptions about raw milk and the danger of raw milk consumption. For more information about dairy sales in Nevada, visit the Nevada Department of Agriculture’s website at Dairy distribution and marketing (nv.gov).
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