Federal regulators have announced that they have not found any live bird flu virus in the first batch of retail milk samples tested. This comes as a reassuring indication that milk on store shelves remains safe despite an outbreak of the virus among dairy cows.
The Food and Drug Administration (F.D.A.) stated that initial tests for live virus, rather than just genetic fragments, showed that the pasteurization process effectively neutralizes the pathogen. This has prompted the F.D.A. to reassure the public that the commercial milk supply is safe based on these results, with testing efforts ongoing.
In addition to milk, infant and toddler formula, which incorporate powdered dairy, also tested negative for the virus. The agency’s online update highlighted the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of dairy products on store shelves.
The announcement comes as a relief to consumers who may have been concerned about the safety of dairy products following the bird flu outbreak among dairy cows. The F.D.A. has emphasized that they are continuing to closely monitor and test dairy products to ensure that they remain safe for consumption.
Overall, the news that retail milk samples have tested negative for the live bird flu virus is a positive development in the ongoing efforts to protect the public from foodborne pathogens. Consumers can feel reassured that dairy products on store shelves are safe for consumption.
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