California health officials recall some raw milk products
Many people in California take for granted the safe and abundant food supply they enjoy every day. The state is one of the world’s most prolific agriculture producers, and the high quality of its products is known around the country and around the world. So when unsafe products are put on the market, the potential for adverse effects is high.
This situation arose late last week when the state issued a recall notice for some products made with raw milk that were produced by Claravale Farms in San Benito County, California. A state veterinarian reported that some raw cream that had been produced at the dairy contained potentially harmful bacteria known as campylobacter.
While the dairy stopped producing and distributing its products, and retailers were told to remove the possibly affected products from their shelves, many consumers have already purchased them. State health officials urge people to get rid of any raw milk products from the dairy with a code date of March 27 or earlier.
Campylobacter illness can include symptoms such as abdominal cramping, fever and diarrhea. Most cases last about a week, but people with compromised immune systems, as well as young children and the elderly, could be at greater risk for a more serious health issue.
As of right now, California state health officials have yet to link an outbreak of the illness to the products that were recalled. However, consumers who are at risk should still dispose of any products that might be contaminated as a precaution.
Source: Santa Cruz Sentinel, “State officials announce recall of raw milk products from San Benito County dairy,” Jessica M. Pasko, March 23, 2012