The raw truth about unpasteurized milk

Some claim that raw milk is healthier than pasteurized, but experts disagree. Plus, why does your body need copper?

Today's Ingredients The raw milk debate is heating up: In July, Iowa became the newest state to legalize the sale of unpasteurized milk. But while some swear by the wholesomeness of raw milk, many experts say it comes with a high dose of risk. Learn why below. Also in today's Nutrition Edition:   • 8 habits that could add decades to your life   • Why a little copper is good for you   • Almond, dairy, soy, rice, and coconut milks compared   • Is canola oil good or bad for you? Bon appétit, Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Healthline   Written by Tim Snaith August 1, 2023 • 4 min read Main Course The Raw Truth on Milk Raw milk is unpasteurized, meaning it does not undergo heat treatment to kill bacteria. While there are zero studies showing that raw milk is healthier for you, there's ample evidence that raw milk can lead to illness. If you've ever visited a milking parlor, you'll know milking can be dirty business. Even in the cleanest setting, germs from an animal's skin, feces, blood, etc. can get into milk during the milking process. Here's a raw milk reality check:   • Raw milk may contain dangerous bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, which cause foodborne illness.   • Studies show that raw milk causes way more outbreaks of serious infections than pasteurized dairy.   • Young kids, older adults, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk. But raw milk bugs can sicken anyone. Fun facts about pasteurization:   • Pasteurization applies high heat — 145–280°F (63–138°C) — for a set time to kill harmful germs in milk, juice, cheese and other foods.   • Studies show that nutrient losses are minimal.   • Heating milk to kill pathogens was a public health breakthrough when it was introduced more than a century ago.   • Even pasteurized milk should be kept in the refrigerator to limit bacterial growth. Raw deal or healthy choice? While the choice is ultimately personal, health agencies strongly advise choosing pasteurized dairy products, especially for people in high risk groups. Raw milk may contain deadly pathogens that can lead to hospitalization. What about using raw milk on your skin? Using raw milk on your face is probably not a good idea if you're prone to bacterial acne, because raw milk will deposit bacteria onto your skin. There's no clinical evidence that supports the use of raw milk on your face as a cleanser, exfoliant, or brightening ingredient. If dairy doesn't appeal to you at all, there are of course some great alternatives, some of them with genuine health benefits. Tell us: Message us at nutritionedition@healthline.com. (Please note that we may use your name and response in an upcoming newsletter!) Kitchen Kit What we're using Not a dairy fan? No problem — a lot of customer reviewers say the Bodum works just great with almond and soy milk too. Our reviewers also called it the best budget milk frother in a recent roundup. The transparent lid is a nice touch because it lets you see the frothing magic happen. And the machine shuts off automatically when done. Every product we recommend has gone through Healthline's vetting process. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline is owned by RVO Health.   Bodum Bistro Electric Milk Frother 4.2  |  7,700+ ratings Details: Heats 1 cup (300 mL) of milk at a time with auto shutoff Shop now Nutrition Spotlight We focus on a different nutrient each week — some well known, others more unusual. This week's calming compound in your cup of tea is… Copper The human body relies on an intricate symphony of trace minerals performing critical functions out of sight. One such unsung hero is copper, a humble household metal that secretly powers vital processes underlying your health. But it's also lethal in excess and must be handled with care. Here's a more detailed summary of copper's functions and food sources: How copper helps your body:   • forms red blood cells that carry oxygen, which gives you energy   • keeps your heart beating steadily and helps regulate blood pressure   • allows your body to absorb iron properly from foods   • prevents inflammation in the prostate gland   • develops and maintains bones, connective tissues, your brain, and your heart   • activates your immune system to fight off viruses and infections Food sources of copper:   • shellfish like oysters and lobster   • organ meats such as liver and kidneys   • nuts and seeds like cashews, sunflower seeds, and almonds   • legumes, including beans, lentils, soybeans, and peanuts   • whole grains like barley, quinoa, and wheat bran   • leafy greens such as spinach and kale   • dark chocolate and cocoa powder   • spices, including basil, thyme, cumin, and chili powder (small amounts) Not getting enough copper is more common than getting too much, but still, copper deficiency is rare. Deficiency symptoms include fatigue, tremors, and numbness. Certain conditions and procedures, such as celiac disease and gastric bypass surgery, can lead to copper deficiency. Copper toxicity   • Consuming very large amounts of copper can cause toxicity.   • Symptoms include vomiting, jaundice, and liver or kidney damage.   • People with the rare disorder Wilson's disease cannot remove excess copper from their bodies, so it builds up and causes damage. The bottom line 👍 Copper is healthy in small amounts, but consuming too much or too little causes problems. If you'd like to learn more, we have an excellent article on copper and why it's good for you. the takeout What we're digesting 🍕 Snacking quality, not quantity, impacts health the most. And consuming most of your snacking calories after 9 p.m. is linked to worse blood glucose and fat levels. 😇 8 habits that could add decades to your life. Adopting these habits by middle age could see you into a ripe old age. 🧠 A probiotic a day could help slow age-related cognitive decline. Learning how to manipulate gut bacteria holds promise for cognitive impairment and other conditions. 🛢️ Is canola oil good or bad for you? Many people have cut canola oil out of their diet due to concerns over its health effects and production methods. Should they have? Thank you for reading. Next time, we'll test your reactions and pass the smelling salts. Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we'll see you again soon!   This edition was powered by milk from Jersey cows.

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