Yes, commercially available milk is generally considered safe to drink.
According to the FDA, commercially sold milk undergoes pasteurization, which is a crucial step in ensuring its safety.
What is Pasteurization?
- Pasteurization is a process that involves heating milk to a specific temperature for a set period.
- This heat treatment effectively eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses that might be present in raw milk.
- By removing these pathogens, pasteurization significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
Why is Pasteurization Important?
- Raw milk can contain harmful microorganisms like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria.
- These bacteria and viruses can cause serious illness.
- Pasteurization destroys these potentially dangerous pathogens, making milk safe for consumption.
Key Takeaway
The process of pasteurization makes commercially sold milk safe for consumption. When choosing milk, look for products that clearly state they have been pasteurized.
