Media Tip Sheet: Grocery Store Milk Tested Positive for Bird Flu


April 29, 2024

A federal order is now requiring dairy cows to be tested for bird flu before traveling across state lines. 

The Food and Drug Administration confirmed samples of pasteurized milk sold in grocery stores tested positive for the virus. The FDA and USDA indicated the commercial milk supply remains safe because of the pasteurization process and the diversion or destruction of milk from sick cows.

While the threat to humans remains low, the Biden administration says the order is meant to contain transmission of the H5N1 virus. 

The George Washington University has experts available to offer insight. If you would like to schedule an interview, please contact Katelyn Deckelbaum, [email protected].

Barbara Kowalcyk, associate professor of exercise and nutrition sciences at the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health is available to provide information on blu flu and the risk to food safety. 

Janet Buffer, food safety expert at the George Washington University can discuss what bird flu is, how cows have been affected and the risk to the general public. 

-GW-