Bad Bacteria

• Certain microorganisms that survive in milk are extremely dangerous. According to United States Food and Drug Administration, there are three major organisms that can be found in milk: salmonella, e-coli and listeria. These bacteria affect everyone, but pregnant women, children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are particularly threatened. The FDA warns that listeria is extremely dangerous to a pregnant woman's child. Listeria can cause miscarriage, fetal death or stillbirth. Logically, anyone with a weakened immune system, such as young children and the elderly, will have a harder time fighting the infection.
  
  

Food Poisoning Symptoms

• Salmonella, e-coli and listeria fall under the category off food-borne illnesses. While the microorganisms differ, the symptoms and risks are generally the same. Signs of infection include vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Flulike symptoms can also develop, such as fever, headache and body aches. Most of the time, healthy people will recover. However, in some cases, symptoms can become chronic, severe or deadly. With this in mind, any sign of food poisoning should be looked at by a doctor.
  
  

Pasteurization

• Keep in mind that harmful bacteria is only found in raw milk. Raw milk is any kind of milk that has is not pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that has been used since Louis Pasteur invented it in 1864. The milk is heated to a certain point, killing dangerous microorganisms. Pasteurization is the safest way to avoid food poisoning. Pasteurized milk and milk products will have the word "pasteurized" written on the label. If not, double check with your grocer, because it may contain at least some raw milk.
  
  

Myths and Facts

• Despite its evident risks, many people prefer to drink raw milk. Proponents of this practice claim that raw milk is better than its pasteurized counterpart. However, the FDA has addressed these issues and refuted them. One myth is that pasteurized milk causes lactose intolerance, which is not true. Some claim that pasteurization reduces milk's nutrients, but the FDA has proven this wrong as well. Additionally, it is untrue that raw milk kills dangerous microorganisms on its own. Most importantly, pasteurization saves lives.