The debate over raw milk consumption has been fairly local and quiet in the U.S., but in Canada, it’s grabbed headlines of late. In November, a farmer who has been at the center of the controversy for more than ten years went on a hunger strike, following a renewed government crackdown on his cow share operation.



The debate over raw milk consumption has been fairly local and quiet in the U.S., but in Canada, it’s grabbed headlines of late. In November, a farmer who has been at the center of the controversy for more than ten years went on a hunger strike, following a renewed government crackdown on his cow share operation.

During the debate that followed, Ontario Finance Minister Greg Sorbara called on the province to consider legalizing raw-milk sales. But Canadian Premier Dalton McGuinty firmly rejected the idea, citing public health reasons. And the health ministry issued a strong public warning saying unpasteurized milk poses a great health risk.

Sorbara confirmed that his wife, Katie, owns a share in the cows at the center of the controversy.

Michael Schmidt, the Owen Sound-area farmer raided and charged with distributing raw milk illegally, has said 150 people have paid roughly $300 each to join his program.