The Florida Department of Health has issued an update on the availability and safety of raw milk in Northeast and Central Florida, following a series of severe illness cases linked to a local dairy.
Raw milk is defined as milk from cows, sheep, goats, or other animals that has not undergone pasteurization. Pasteurization is a heat treatment process used to destroy potentially harmful bacteria. While some consumers believe raw milk offers benefits such as improved taste and possible protection against asthma and allergies, the department emphasizes the risks associated with its consumption.
In Florida, regulations permit raw milk sales only for non-human consumption as pet or animal food. Containers must be labeled accordingly, which restricts regulatory oversight of sanitary practices.
The department highlighted that contamination risks can vary depending on how producers handle and process the milk. “Many people consume raw milk safely. However, raw milk can contain disease-causing bacteria, such as Campylobacter, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Listeria, Salmonella, and others. These bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness, including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps,” according to the department.
A recent cluster of illnesses has been traced to Keely Farms Dairy in New Smyrna Beach (Volusia County). Since January 24, 2025, there have been 21 reported cases linked to this farm’s raw milk products. Of these cases, six involved children under ten years old and seven required hospitalization; at least two resulted in severe complications.
“Due to continued recent severe cases of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections linked to Keely Farms Dairy…the Florida Department of Health is providing information to assist Floridians in making informed decisions about their health. Sanitation practices in this farm are of concern due to the number of cases,” stated the department.
STEC infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which involves hemolysis and kidney failure—a particular risk for children. The department notes that infants and young children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious illness from contaminated raw milk.
The Florida Department of Health says it will continue working with Keely Farms Dairy to improve sanitation procedures across all batches produced.
Floridians are advised to consider these risks when deciding whether or not to consume raw milk: “Floridians are encouraged to use this information to make informed decisions about their health and sources of raw milk should they choose to consume it.”
The department remains committed to protecting public health through state and community efforts.
For more information about the Florida Department of Health visit www.FloridaHealth.gov or follow @HealthyFla on Twitter or Facebook.
