With the discovery of a virulent strain of bird flu in several herds of dairy cattle last month, there has been some concern about its potential spread to the milk supply. Although a CDC advisory claims pasteurization can kill the virus, other experts say contaminated milk could reach consumers. As a result, some people may choose to move away from cow’s milk and explore non-dairy options.
Our Long History With Milk
For millennia, people from cultures around the globe have been drinking milk from cows and other animals like sheep and goats.Milk is a nutrient-rich, complete food made by mammals to feed their young, and offers essential nutrients like protein, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, folate, zinc, and vitamins A and B12. It also contains saturated fats, unsaturated fats, and cholesterol, which vary depending on the type of milk you choose.
