Mark McAfee, the CEO of Raw Farm, the nation’s largest raw milk producer, envisions a significant role for himself in a potential second Trump administration. With Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal raw milk advocate, nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, McAfee anticipates advising on raw milk policy, aiming to establish safety standards that would facilitate wider distribution. This aspiration comes amid a turbulent period for Raw Farm, which recently faced recalls and dairy closures due to avian influenza contamination in its milk. Despite these setbacks, the McAfee family remains steadfast in their belief in raw milk’s benefits and anticipates substantial growth, projecting a threefold increase in sales within three years. This confidence stems from their perceived success in scaling raw milk production, a feat considered impossible by many in the traditional dairy industry.
Raw Farm’s optimistic projections stand in stark contrast to the consistent warnings issued by federal health regulators regarding the consumption of unpasteurized milk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented numerous illnesses and hospitalizations linked to raw milk consumption, highlighting the inherent risks associated with bypassing pasteurization, the heat treatment process that eliminates harmful bacteria. Despite these concerns, raw milk remains legal in some states, including California, where Raw Farm operates. This legality has fueled a raw milk movement, attracting both health-conscious consumers who believe in the product’s purported benefits and individuals who champion personal choice and limited government intervention. This confluence of consumer demand and ideological conviction has created a market for raw milk, even as health officials continue to emphasize the potential dangers.
The recent outbreak of avian influenza, which has spread from birds to other animals and even humans, adds another layer of complexity to the raw milk debate. While pasteurization effectively neutralizes the H5N1 bird flu virus, rendering pasteurized milk safe for consumption, the presence of the virus in raw milk raises concerns about potential mutations and human-to-human transmission. This uncertainty has prompted aggressive measures to contain the spread of the virus in raw milk, further underscoring the inherent risks associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy products. The McAfee family, while acknowledging the challenges posed by the bird flu outbreak, remains committed to their raw milk operation. They have implemented testing protocols, established partnerships with uninfected dairies, and even diverted their own contaminated milk for pasteurization, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to navigating the current crisis.
The McAfee family’s journey into the raw milk business was serendipitous. After establishing an organic dairy farm, they began receiving requests for raw milk from customers who had seen their website, a rarity for dairy farmers at the time. Witnessing the fervent demand firsthand during a trip to Los Angeles, they recognized the market opportunity and expanded their operations to include raw butter, cheese, and kefir. This direct connection with consumers, coupled with the premium price commanded by raw milk, has enabled Raw Farm to build a profitable business, despite ongoing regulatory challenges. The McAfees attribute their success to their consumer-centric approach, which differentiates them from traditional dairy operations.
However, the Raw Farm story is also one of persistent legal battles with regulatory agencies. The company has faced both criminal and civil litigation for violating federal food laws, particularly regarding interstate distribution of raw milk. They’ve admitted to mislabeling shipments as pet food to circumvent restrictions, and court documents reveal a history of non-compliance with regulations. Despite signing consent decrees and facing shutdowns, the McAfees have persevered, fueled by their belief in raw milk and supported by the financial backing of Eric McAfee, who has invested significantly in the business. This unwavering commitment, coupled with the increased demand during the Covid-19 pandemic, has propelled Raw Farm’s growth, further solidifying their position in the raw milk market.
The McAfee family, despite operating within a contentious landscape, remains focused on the future. They view the recent bird flu outbreak as a temporary setback and anticipate a resurgence in demand once the quarantine is lifted. Beyond raw milk, they are exploring expansion into other minimally processed, natural food products, positioning themselves as a “healthy lifestyle brand.” While attracting interest from venture capitalists, the family remains committed to maintaining full ownership of their business, emphasizing their unique approach and unwavering dedication to their chosen path. This combination of entrepreneurial spirit, unwavering belief in their product, and a history of navigating regulatory challenges shapes the Raw Farm narrative, positioning them as a key player in the ongoing debate surrounding raw milk consumption.
