Raw Milk Debate

Last week Bill 434, which would have allowed for the legal sale of raw (unpasteurized) milk in Wisconsin, was vetoed by Governor Jim Doyle. This has been an issue with strong advocates for and opponents against the legislation.

Multiple industry organizations, including the Dairy Business Association, Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association and Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association, along with several physician and health organizations, were in support of the veto and content with the outcome. Reasoning ranged from health concerns, such as bacteria, pathogens and contamination, to protecting the industry from unnecessary negative exposure in the event of a health-related outbreak from the consumption of raw milk.

Advocates for the legal sale of raw milk have their own reasons to support the passing of the bill, including the arguments that the pasteurization process kills important nutrients and enzymes that can help fend off illnesses and deliver other health benefits and that the government should not regulate what consumers can and cannot consume.

After reviewing the consumer press articles on this topic, I was interested in reading the many comments left by jsonline.com readers (major newspaper in the Milwaukee area). Many readers who commented were ill-informed on the topic, and the industry as a whole, blaming large dairies, or “factory farmers,” for being the milk contamination culprits and grouping all large operations as being dirty and only concerned about making money.

This presents the opportunity to share our voice and educate consumers on modern agriculture practices and inform them of the food, feed and fuel needs of the world today–needs that will only increase as the global population continues to rapidly grow.

Whether you agree or disagree with the veto, all who work in the industry need to help dispel the myths about agriculture production—in this case, dairying. Livestock producers know that clean environments and well–cared–for animals are the base for a successful, profitable operation. Keeping their animals healthy is key to longevity and prosperity. We know this, too, and need to help spread the message.