The U.S. Food and Drug Administration FDA has reported that approximately 20% of commercial milk samples in the U.S. tested positive for traces of bird flu, with a higher concentration in areas with infected herds.
Eight states in the U.S. have confirmed cases of bird flu in dairy cattle, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. However, the FDA underscored that there is no evidence indicating the milk poses a danger to consumers or contains a live virus.
The regulator said further testing is needed to determine if the pathogen remains infectious. The FDA also reassured the public that heating milk to a specific temperature renders it safe for consumption, as this process kills harmful bacteria and viruses.
