AI-rewritten: This is a summary of an article from Ars Technica, rewritten by AI (Qwen, running locally) to make it easier to read. The facts come from the original article – read it for the full story.

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Pediatricians are renewing their call to ban raw milk in the United States, arguing that anti-science rhetoric is undermining hard-won public health victories. While modern medicine advances with new treatments for obesity and cancer, doctors face obstacles from figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who serves as health secretary under President Trump. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has spent significant resources defending vaccinations against false claims, but they now also face pressure regarding unpasteurized dairy.

The AAP states that pasteurization involves briefly heating milk to kill dangerous pathogens found in cattle, a process that historically caused a sharp drop in infant deaths and illnesses. Despite this scientific consensus, misinformation persists, fueled partly by advocates like Kennedy who claim vaccines are part of a conspiracy. Additionally, state laws have loosened restrictions on raw milk sales, with at least 27 states currently allowing them, even though federal law bans interstate commerce. Consequently, outbreaks linked to raw milk have increased over the past two decades, affecting nearly half of those who fall ill, particularly children who are vulnerable to foodborne pathogens.

A recent report by ProPublica highlighted a tragic case involving a 17-month-old girl in California who nearly died after drinking raw goat milk contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. The bacteria caused hemolytic uremic syndrome, a condition that destroys red blood cells and damages kidneys, leading to life-threatening complications. Although the child survived, she suffered lasting effects including halted speech and motor development, requiring long-term medical monitoring. Her mother, who initially trusted social media myths about raw milk benefits, now regrets giving her daughter unpasteurized dairy after learning of the risks.

In response, the AAP has reaffirmed its policy endorsing a ban on the sale or distribution of unpasteurized milk products throughout the United States. The organization bases this recommendation on extensive data showing the burden of illness associated with raw milk consumption, especially among infants and young children. They also emphasize that strong scientific evidence confirms pasteurization does not alter the nutritional value of milk.