Pediatrics Group Wants Nationwide Ban on Raw Milk

Warn pregnant women and children not to drink it

The American Academy of Pediatrics on Monday warned that pregnant women and children should not drink raw milk and said it supports a nationwide ban on the sale of raw milk because of the danger of bacterial illnesses.

The group's statement said it supports federal health authorities "in endorsing the consumption of only pasteurized milk and milk products for pregnant women, infants and children."

The academy also "endorses a ban on the sale of raw or unpasteurized milk and milk products throughout the United States, including the sale of certain raw milk cheeses, such as fresh cheese, soft cheeses and soft-ripened cheeses."

Thirty states allow the sale of raw milk. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits the interstate shipment of raw milk for human consumption, though it allows transport of some clearly labeled raw cheeses.