The epidemiology of raw milk-associated foodborne disease outbreaks reported in the United States, 1973 through 1992.

Objectives: This study describes the epidemiology of raw milk-associated outbreaks reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 1973 through 1992.

Methods: Surveillance data for each reported raw milk-associated outbreak were reviewed. A national survey was conducted to determine the legal status of intrastate raw milk sales for the period 1973 through 1995.

Results: Forty-six raw milk-associated outbreaks were reported during the study period; 40 outbreaks (87%) occurred in states where the intrastate sale of raw milk was legal.

Conclusions: Consumption of raw milk remains a preventable cause of foodborne disease outbreaks.