The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking bold steps to protect the nation’s milk supply.
Starting December 16, raw milk from dairy farms across the United States will be tested for H5N1, a strain of bird flu that was detected in cattle earlier this year.
This effort is part of the USDA’s new National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS), designed to stop the virus from spreading and keep milk safe for consumers.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the plan, emphasizing its importance for both farmers and public health.
“This strategy gives us the tools to act quickly. We can identify infected herds, protect farmworkers, and safeguard the integrity of our milk supply,” Vilsack said.
Starting in Six States
Under the program, raw milk samples from farms, transporters, and processing facilities will be collected and tested.
The rollout begins with six states, including California, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, before expanding to all 48 contiguous states.
The testing process will start at milk silos to detect any presence of H5N1. If the virus is found, more focused testing will help identify affected herds.
Unaffected states will still undergo regular checks to ensure their status remains secure.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra reassured consumers that pasteurized milk remains safe.
“Pasteurization effectively eliminates the virus, but this extra layer of testing ensures we stay ahead in protecting both the food supply and public health,” he said.
Farmers will also have access to USDA resources to enhance biosecurity on their farms. These include financial assistance for protective gear, veterinary services, and hygiene protocols to limit the virus’s spread.
Officials are encouraging dairy producers to remain vigilant and proactive, even in regions where the virus hasn’t been detected.
