Raw Milk Outbreak Linked to Dairy Farm

FL Dept of Health Newsroom

Published August 4th, 2025

Detected February 13th, 2026

Summary

The Florida Department of Health issued an update regarding a raw milk outbreak linked to Keely Farms Dairy, reporting 21 cases and 7 hospitalizations. The notice highlights the risks of consuming raw milk and the department's work with the farm to improve sanitation practices.

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What changed

The Florida Department of Health has issued a notice detailing a significant outbreak of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections linked to raw milk from Keely Farms Dairy. As of August 4, 2025, there have been 21 reported cases, including six children, and seven hospitalizations, with severe complications in at least two cases. The department is concerned about sanitation practices at the farm and is working with them to implement improvements.

This notice serves as a public health advisory, informing Floridians about the risks associated with raw milk consumption, particularly for vulnerable populations. While raw milk is permitted for non-human consumption in Florida, the outbreak underscores the potential for severe illness. Regulated entities, particularly dairy producers and distributors, should review their sanitation protocols and ensure compliance with labeling requirements for animal consumption. Consumers are advised to make informed decisions regarding raw milk sources.

What to do next

Review sanitation practices for raw milk production and distribution.
Ensure all raw milk intended for non-human consumption is clearly labeled as such.
Monitor public health advisories regarding foodborne illness outbreaks.

Source document (simplified)

For media inquiries: Communications Office • NewsMedia@FLHealth.gov • 850-245-4111 Tallahassee, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health is providing an update on raw milk availability in the Northeast and Central Florida regions.

What is Raw Milk

Raw milk is milk from cows, sheep, goats, or other animals that has not been pasteurized, a heat-treating process that destroys potentially harmful bacteria. Consumers have reported benefits of raw milk consumption, including better taste and protective effects for asthma and allergies.

In Florida, raw milk can only be sold for non-human consumption as pet or animal food, which limits regulation efforts of sanitary practices. Containers must have a label clearly stating that the raw milk is for animal consumption only.

Floridians should be aware of potential risks associated with consumption, which may vary depending on the source of milk. The producer’s handling of raw milk and milking procedures are vital in prevention of contamination. Many people consume raw milk safely. However, raw milk can contain disease-causing bacteria, such as Campylobacter, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Listeria, Salmonella, and others. These bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness, including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.

Information on the Consumption of Raw Milk in the Northeast/Central Florida Region

Due to continued recent severe cases of Campylobacter and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections linked to Keely Farms Dairy, located in New Smyrna Beach, FL (Volusia County), the Florida Department of Health is providing information to assist Floridians in making informed decisions about their health. Sanitation practices in this farm are of concern due to the number of cases. There have been 21 cases since January 24, 2025, including six children under the age of 10, and seven hospitalizations linked to consumption of raw milk from this farm. Severe complications have been reported in at least two cases.

The Florida Department of Health will continue working with Keely Farms Dairy to ensure that effective sanitation practices are implemented consistently across every batch.

STEC bacteria in its most severe form can result in hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) which is characterized by hemolysis and kidney failure, which is of particular concern for children. Groups at higher risk for severe illness include infants and young children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

Floridians are encouraged to use this information to make informed decisions about their health and sources of raw milk should they choose to consume it.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.