MN Lawmakers Propose Legalizing Raw Milk

ST. PAUL, Minn.The Associated Press is reporting three state senators in Minnesota have proposed new legislation that would legalize direct farm to consumer sales of raw milk. Current laws prevent it everywhere in the state except on the farm where it was produced.

The debate over raw milk versus pasteurized milk has made headlines the past year as consumers want the freedom to rebel against the industrialized by drinking locally grown, natural products but are being prevented from doing so by laws that prohibit the sale of raw milk. However, health officials contend raw milk can contain several harmful organisms, including Salmonella, E. coli and brucellosis that can cause severe illness and even death. In fact, a number of states experienced outbreaks of foodborne illness this year that were tied to raw milk.