Raw Milk Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction
In our last post, we talked about the benefits of raw milk—its superior nutrition, digestibility, and support for sustainable farming. But if you’ve ever researched raw milk, you’ve probably come across conflicting information. Some say it’s the perfect, natural superfood, while others claim it’s a serious health risk. So, what’s the truth?
At Wild Harts Dairy, we believe in transparency, education, and empowering people to make informed choices about their food. Today, we’re tackling some of the biggest myths about raw milk and separating fact from fiction.
Myth #1: Raw Milk Is Dangerous and Full of Harmful Bacteria
The Truth:
Raw milk can contain harmful bacteria—just like any food—but when produced responsibly, it is safe to drink. The key is sourcing raw milk from healthy, pasture-raised cows and a farm that follows strict sanitation practices.
📖 Fact Check: Studies show that the risk of illness from raw milk is low compared to other foods like leafy greens, deli meats, and even pasteurized dairy. Proper handling and testing make raw milk a safe, nutrient-dense food choice.
🔗 Read More: Raw Milk Safety & Testing (Raw Milk Institute)
Myth #2: Pasteurization Makes Milk Healthier
The Truth:
Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria, but it also destroys beneficial enzymes, vitamins, and probiotics that help with digestion and immune function. Raw milk is a living food, rich in nutrients that are either reduced or eliminated through heat processing.
📖 Fact Check: Pasteurization does not remove all bacteria from milk—it only targets certain pathogens. Meanwhile, it destroys lactase-producing bacteria, which is why some people who are lactose intolerant struggle with pasteurized milk but can tolerate raw milk.
🔗 Read More: Nutritional Differences Between Raw & Pasteurized Milk (Weston A. Price Foundation)
Myth #3: Raw Milk Has No Proven Health Benefits
The Truth:
Several scientific studies highlight raw milk’s health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced allergies, and a stronger immune system. The GABRIELA study found that children who drank raw milk had lower rates of asthma and allergies compared to those who consumed pasteurized milk.
📖 Fact Check: The live enzymes, beneficial bacteria, and complete proteins in raw milk contribute to its digestibility and immune-supporting properties.
🔗 Read More: The GABRIELA Study on Raw Milk & Allergies (National Library of Medicine)
Myth #4: Raw Milk Goes Bad Quickly
The Truth:
Raw milk doesn’t spoil—it transforms. Unlike pasteurized milk, which rots when it expires, raw milk naturally ferments into products like kefir, yogurt, and sour cream. Many traditional cultures have relied on raw dairy’s fermenting properties to preserve food and enhance nutrition.
📖 Fact Check: Proper refrigeration extends raw milk’s freshness. When raw milk starts to sour, it can still be used in cooking, baking, and probiotic-rich foods.
🔗 Read More: How Raw Milk Naturally Ferments (Cultures for Health)
Myth #5: Raw Milk Is Illegal
The Truth:
Raw milk laws vary by state, but in many places, you can legally obtain it through herdshares, direct farm sales, or licensed retail locations. Illinois allows raw milk sales via herdshares, which is how Wild Harts Dairy provides fresh, farm-fresh milk to our community.
📖 Fact Check: Want to know the laws in your state? Check out the Real Milk Finder for more details on raw milk availability near you.
🔗 Find Raw Milk Near You: Real Milk Finder (Weston A. Price Foundation)
Making an Informed Choice
At Wild Harts Dairy, we know that raw milk isn’t for everyone, but we believe in food freedom—the right to choose nutrient-dense, traditional foods that align with your health goals.
If you’re curious about raw milk and want to learn more, contact us here to learn more about our herdshare program to experience the difference of fresh, pasture-raised dairy.