As mentioned in my post – The Many Sides/Positions/Factions in the ‘Raw’ Milk Controversy, I am mapping the different elements, issues, sides, components of the ‘raw’ milk debate / controversy. I am still delving into this complex controversy, but have identified some of the key elements / issues –
- Scientific – epidemiological surveillance; risk of contracting a food-borne illness; microbiological analysis of ‘raw’ milk, and the standard practise of pasteurisation VS anecdotal / testimonial evidence, and discrediting of epidemiological and scientific evidence
- Political & Ideological – Government regulation of the sale of ‘raw’ milk; duty to reduce the incidence of food-borne illness and ensure food is safe for consumption, and the presentation of sound scientific and epidemiological evidence about the risks associated with consuming ‘raw’ milk VS discrediting of evidence presented by governments; conspiracy theories; desire to remove government control over food consumption, and citizens’ personal choice
- Social – the socially accepted idea that milk needs to be pasteurised to make it safe and fit for consumption, and awareness that 100 years ago people used to get really sick from drinking milk and that’s why pasteurisation was bought in VS the raw / natural / organic / whole food / traditional food movement; alternative lifestyles; food lovers, chefs and artisan producers; support for small scale local farming providing traditional food and better conditions for farm animals, and removal of government control over food consumption
- Industry – Animal Husbandry & Food Manufacturing – modern animal husbandry techniques and mass production and increased risk of contamination of animal products; pasteurisation as standard practise in the dairy industry, and industry driven by greed and profit VS organic farming techniques; small scale farming with better conditions for dairy cattle; more traditional methods; and support for local farmers
With more reading and analysis of this controversy, I am sure I will uncover more key elements and issues.
[…] my post The ‘Raw’ Milk Controversy from September I touched the key elements involved in the controversy around ‘raw’ […]