The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) caused by H5N1 viruses in dairy cattle has raised concerns in the dairy market. However, consumers can be reassured that pasteurization is a robust process that ensures the safety of the commercial milk supply. While the impact on dairy factories and product availability is a cause for monitoring, it’s important to note that the safety of commercially available milk is not compromised. Cattle infected by H5N1 viruses could present various symptoms, including decreased lactation and low appetite. Dairy farms in several states in the U.S. have reported cases of HPAI.
The primary concern lies in the potential disruption avian flu outbreaks can cause at dairy farms. Farms with outbreaks could be quarantined, limiting milk flow to factories. Quarantine measures are among the biosecurity protocols critical to preventing and managing H5N1 on dairy farms. In addition, implementing stricter workforce safety protocols to protect workers from infected animals should be a priority. Working with infected or potentially infected animals requires farm workers to wear protective personal equipment such as an N95 face mask, gloves, and eye protector and to wash hands thoroughly. These measures increased costs and could put a strain on dairy factories.
How does the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza impact milk production and prices?
The outbreak has had a significant impact on milk production and prices. HPAI can lead to a substantial reduction in milk production from infected cows. Furthermore, milk from sick cows is diverted or destroyed. It should not be supplied to factories to ensure the safety of the commercial milk supply, resulting in a reduction in milk supply. However, experts predict that the overall impact on national milk supply will be relatively small, as not all farms are affected, even in the regions with confirmed infected farms. Therefore, widespread shortages are unlikely, but temporary dips in production could lead to limited availability.
The potential decrease in milk production and the increased costs of stricter biosecurity measures at farms could lead to price fluctuations. Depending on the outbreak’s severity, dairy product prices could increase due to lower supply and higher production costs.
How do we address consumer concerns?
Regulatory agencies and the dairy industry are working to implement stricter biosecurity protocols and closely monitor outbreaks. The focus is on preventing outbreaks on farms in the first place to minimize disruptions in the milk supply chain. Misinformation surrounding the safety of milk during an outbreak can be a concern. It is crucial to reiterate that pasteurization effectively eliminates the virus, ensuring the safety of commercially available milk. Consumers should stay informed with reliable sources such as the FDA and USDA websites that offer regular updates, and the dairy industry should maintain clear communication with consumers.
