Can you eat raw butter?
Quick Answer
Yes
Raw butter can be consumed, but it carries a higher risk of foodborne illnesses compared to pasteurized butter due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria.
What Is It?
Raw butter is butter made from unpasteurized milk. Unlike regular butter, it has not undergone the heat treatment process to kill bacteria.
Historical Context
Raw butter has been consumed for centuries, particularly in rural communities where fresh milk is readily available. It’s often praised for its rich, creamy flavor.
Why It Can Be Risky
While raw butter can be consumed, it does come with certain risks.
- Raw butter can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause foodborne illnesses.
- People with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, young children, and the elderly are particularly at risk.
Safe Method?
To minimize the risk, only consume raw butter from a trusted source where the cows are grass-fed and the milk is handled in a sanitary manner.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re concerned about the risks, consider alternatives like pasteurized butter or plant-based butter substitutes.
Storage Tips
Raw butter should be stored in the refrigerator to slow the growth of bacteria. It can also be frozen for longer storage.