Here’s how outbreak management usually goes:
Pathogenic microbe enters the farm, by some carrier, and forms one or more colonies. This pathogen enters the product. The outbreak is detected. The farm is immediately notified, issues a recall and pulls product off the shelves. State-level Department of Agriculture inspects the farm, with the farmer, to find and eliminate the pathogen. Operations then continue.
Florida’s response is not how it usually goes
August 4, 2025 – Florida Department of Health Provides Update on Raw Milk
Information on the Consumption of Raw Milk in the Northeast/Central Florida Region
Due to continued recent severe cases of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections linked to Keely Farms Dairy, located in New Smyrna Beach, FL (Volusia County), the Florida Department of Health is providing information to assist Floridians in making informed decisions about their health. Sanitation practices in this farm are of concern due to the number of cases. There have been 21 cases since January 24, 2025, including six children under the age of 10, and seven hospitalizations linked to consumption of raw milk from this farm. Severe complications have been reported in at least two cases.
“Linked” is an interesting term, but we’ll move on.
August 7, 2025 – Keely Farms Dairy on Facebook
Keely Farms Dairy sells raw milk only as livestock feed. It is labeled not for human consumption.
Keely Farms Dairy has not been informed of any immediate investigation by the Florida Department of Health and will reach out to their agency. We were not contacted by the Department of Health prior to or regarding their statement this morning.
The Florida Department of Health has not informed Keely Farms of any investigation or administrative action. The Department of Health has not been to the farm or taken any samples here. The Department of Health has not indicated to Keely Farms that it committed any wrongdoing, so its press release has blindsided us.
In most states, the farmer would be contacted immediately. Their farm would be inspected, the source of the outbreak would be identified and sanitized.
The lack of communication, from the State of Florida, despite naming them as the source, is an abnormal operation in terms of regulating raw milk.
Tests come back negative
Keely Farms Dairy posted negative test results for Campylobacter and Escherichia coli on Facebook.
Tragedy and fear mongering
This outbreak has seen more news reporting than most. So much so that Florida’s Attorney General rebutted the wave of demonization against raw milk farmers and consumers.
Floridians have the freedom to make informed health choices. I support the decision to consume raw milk when sought for potential health benefits and protective factors. Be aware of your source and know the risks.
Read: Comparing raw milk foodborne illness data with other foods
Read: Why raw milk?
Last year, preserved meats from Boar’s Head killed 10 people and sickened many more. I heard on Apple News that this was an example of our regulatory systems working properly, and I agree with them. The lack of regulatory mobilization in this case is shocking from my perspective here on the west coast.
About “pet food” licensing
Raw milk for human consumption does not have a legal pathway in Florida. Therefore, raw milk is sold under the feed licensing system and referred to as “pet food.” This website can help you learn more about raw milk laws.
