The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is committed to promoting and protecting a safe, abundant, and affordable food supply. We have highly regarded scientists and lab testing facilities that are a part of the comprehensive food safety protocols for the State of Florida.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is committed to promoting and protecting a safe, abundant, and affordable food supply. We have highly regarded scientists and lab testing facilities that are a part of the comprehensive food safety protocols for the State of Florida.

There have been recent reports of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus found in cows and milk products across the U.S. While to date there are no confirmed reports of its presence in Florida, it is important for Florida consumers to understand pasteurization is effective in inactivating the virus.

Raw milk and raw milk products are not approved for human consumption in Florida. Raw milk and raw milk products are not pasteurized, and therefore are at risk for containing the live virus. Exposure and consumption of raw milk and raw milk products can put both humans and animals at risk and have the potential to further spread the virus.

Florida has taken proactive measures to help protect Florida livestock from HPAI, including issuing Emergency Rule 5CER24-4, which imposes the following temporary restrictions:

• No cattle exposed to or infected with Bovine Associated Influenza A Syndrome may be imported into Florida.
• No lactating dairy cattle from states with suspected or confirmed cases of Bovine Associated Influenza A Syndrome may be imported into Florida.
• Non-lactating dairy cattle from states with suspected or confirmed cases must be accompanied by a valid Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection completed no more than 10 days prior to importation.

Additional information from the FDA:

• Updates on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
• Questions and Answers Regarding Milk Safety During Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Outbreaks

For more information about Commissioner Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FDACS.gov.

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