Raw Milk Nightmare: Florida Family Files Food Poisoning Lawsuit After Fetus Loss and Toddler Illness – Get the Facts

A Florida family is facing a devastating ordeal after consuming raw milk, highlighting the significant dangers associated with unpasteurized dairy products. This incident has led to a food poisoning lawsuit, raising critical questions about the safety and legality of raw milk sales, and whether current regulations adequately protect consumers.

Tragedy Strikes: Fetus Loss and Toddler Hospitalized

In a heartbreaking case, a Seminole County mother, Rachel Maddox, has filed a lawsuit against Keely Farms Dairy, LLC, and Nature’s Natural Foods, LLC, which operates Wild Hare Natural Market, alleging that raw milk purchased at the market caused severe illness in her toddler and led to the loss of her 20-week pregnancy. The lawsuit, filed on August 13, 2025, in Seminole County Circuit Court, seeks damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, including claims related to the loss of Maddox’s pregnancy.

According to the complaint, Maddox purchased raw milk in June from Wild Hare Natural Market. The milk was labeled “for consumption by animals,” which Maddox said she was told was a technical requirement for selling “farm milk.” On June 8, 2025, her toddler developed diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, and dehydration. He was hospitalized from June 9 to June 12, underwent surgery for intussusception—a condition in which part of the intestine slides into another—and tested positive for E. coli and Campylobacter. His treatment is ongoing. Maddox also became ill with similar symptoms, developed sepsis, and tragically lost her unborn child. She was hospitalized for 19 days. Both Maddox and her son tested positive for the strain of campylobacter linked to contaminated Keely Farms Dairy raw milk.

Raw Milk: A National Flashpoint

Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized, a process that heats milk to kill harmful germs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly warn against its consumption, citing the risk of serious foodborne illnesses. Supporters of raw milk claim it has a better taste and potential health benefits, though these claims are not scientifically substantiated.

Florida Law and Labeling Loopholes

Florida law prohibits the sale of raw milk for human consumption, but it is available in retail outlets labeled as “animal feed.” This labeling loophole raises concerns about whether current laws and labeling practices adequately protect families from the risks of unpasteurized milk. In fact, Florida Statutes 502-091, makes it illegal to sell raw milk for human consumption. Only Grade “A” pasteurized milk and milk products, pasteurized manufactured milk products, ice cream, and frozen desserts, and cheese made from pasteurized milk shall be sold at retail to the final consumer or to food service establishments as defined in chapter 381, food establishments as defined in chapter 500, or public food service establishments as defined in chapter 509.

Health Department Findings

The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) has linked at least 21 illnesses since January 2025 to raw milk from Keely Farms Dairy. Six cases involved children under 10, seven required hospitalization, and two developed severe complications. In an advisory, FDOH said sanitation practices at the dairy were “of concern” and urged Floridians to be aware of the risks of consuming raw dairy. The commissioner of agriculture also encouraged residents to choose pasteurized products.

The Dangers of Raw Milk: What You Need to Know

Raw milk can carry harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Tuberculosis, and Brucella. These germs can cause serious health problems, especially for young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of foodborne illness from raw milk can include diarrhea, stomach cramping, and vomiting. In some cases, more severe outcomes like Guillain-Barré syndrome or hemolytic uremic syndrome can occur, potentially leading to paralysis, kidney failure, stroke, or even death.

Why is raw milk so risky?

Animal waste: Raw milk can be contaminated by animal poop, bird droppings, or contact with an animal’s skin.
Unsanitary conditions: Bacteria can be introduced during milking, on equipment, or in processing plants.
Lack of pasteurization: Pasteurization is a critical process that kills harmful bacteria, making milk safe to drink.

Who is most at risk?

Young children: Their immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to severe infections.
Pregnant women: Listeria, a common contaminant in raw milk, can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Older adults: They are more likely to develop severe complications from foodborne illnesses.
People with weakened immune systems: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, and diabetes increase the risk of serious illness.

Legal Recourse for Food Poisoning Victims

If you or a loved one has suffered from food poisoning after consuming raw milk or other contaminated products, you may have legal recourse. A food poisoning lawsuit can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

What legal grounds exist for filing a food poisoning lawsuit in Florida?

Negligence: A food provider failed to meet reasonable food safety standards.
Strict liability: A food provider sold contaminated food, regardless of negligence.
Breach of warranty: An implied assurance that food sold is safe to eat was violated.

What steps should you take if you suspect food poisoning?

Seek medical attention: Get a diagnosis and document your symptoms.
Report the incident: Contact your local health department.
Preserve evidence: Save any remaining food, receipts, and medical records.
Consult an attorney: Discuss your legal options with a qualified personal injury lawyer.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family

The dangers of raw milk are clear and well-documented. To protect yourself and your family, follow these guidelines:

Choose pasteurized milk and dairy products: Pasteurization effectively kills harmful bacteria, making milk safe to consume.
Be wary of misleading labels: Raw milk sold as “animal feed” is not safe for human consumption.
Stay informed: Understand the risks associated with raw milk and make informed decisions about your health.

The Bottom Line

The Florida family’s tragic experience serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of consuming raw milk. While proponents may tout its supposed benefits, the scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the safety and necessity of pasteurization. By staying informed and choosing pasteurized dairy products, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the serious health risks associated with raw milk.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by contaminated food, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your rights and options for pursuing compensation.