Salmonella in raw milk from Jerry Dell Farm Inc. in Freeville, New York has triggered a food safety alert from the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets. At the time of the alert, no illnesses has been reported in connection with the unpasteurized milk. However, consumers who have purchased this milk should not drink it as Salmonella can cause serious illness or death.
Symptoms of a Salmonella infection, which include nausea, fever, vomiting and diarrhea that can be bloody, usually set in between six and 72 hours of exposure. Those most at risk are children, seniors and others with weakened immune systems. In some cases, Salmonella infections can result in more severe illnesses such as arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis.
The problem was discovered during routine testing. The farm was notified of the results on November 18 and agreed to stop selling raw milk.
Laws governing the sale of raw milk vary from state to state. In New York, it is legal for permitted farms, such as Jerry Dell, to sell raw milk. They are inspected regularly. If a sample tests positive, the farm is not allowed to resume sales until subsequent tests are pathogen-free.
Ag officials recommend that anyone who recently purchased raw milk from Jerry Dell Farm immediately dispose of it. Consumers with questions about the safety alert can call the Ag Department at 518-457-1772.
