Are you still sipping raw milk, thinking it is healthier? Think again. Raw milk has been trending on social media as a “natural” and “healthy” choice, but experts warn it could do more harm than good. Dr. Nandita Iyer (a medical doctor and health coach) recently shared an eye-opening video explaining why it can be risky for your health.
Raw Milk Risks You Should Know
Dr. Nandita Iyer, who has 173k followers on Instagram, posted the video and wrote, “Raw milk is not healthy but risky!”
In her clip, she explains that raw milk is not the health upgrade many promoters claim. Most cows and buffaloes in modern dairy farms are kept in conditions that are far from clean. This increases the chance of bacterial contamination. Such milk can carry dangerous bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria, and even pathogens that cause tuberculosis and brucellosis. These bacteria can lead to serious illnesses and hospitalisations rather than improving gut health.
Why Pasteurisation Matters
Pasteurisation is a simple but essential process that makes milk safe. It involves heating milk to 72°C for 15 seconds to kill harmful bacteria while keeping nutrients intact. Dr. Iyer highlights that Louis Pasteur invented this process to prevent food-borne illnesses. Over the past century, pasteurisation has dramatically reduced milk-related diseases and deaths. Choosing pasteurised milk ensures safety without compromising protein, calcium, or essential vitamins.
Many raw milk advocates claim it contains magical enzymes, boosts probiotics, or helps with lactose intolerance. Dr. Iyer clarifies that these claims are misleading. Studies, including research from Stanford, show no added benefit for lactose-intolerant individuals. Any enzymes in raw milk are destroyed by stomach acid and cannot provide health benefits. For genuine probiotics, she recommends fermented foods like dahi (curd), buttermilk, and kefir produced under controlled conditions.
The Risks Of “Fresh Milk” Delivery
Even milk delivered by local milkmen in India can be unsafe. Contamination can occur due to dirty cans, unsanitary handling, or adulteration with chemicals like detergents or urea. Boiling at home may kill germs, but it cannot remove harmful chemicals.
Dr. Iyer’s message is that natural does not always mean safe. Families, especially those with children, should opt for pasteurised milk. This simple step protects against dangerous bacteria while still providing essential nutrients. Choosing pasteurised milk over raw milk is a small change that can prevent serious health risks.
