A recent outbreak of Campylobacter in Timaru, New Zealand, has been blamed on raw milk.

Seven people have been confirmed as having Campylobacter after purchasing raw milk from a farm on the outskirts of Timaru.

South Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Daniel Williams believes the seven cases are the tip the iceberg.

”Drinking raw milk is risky for your health. It can contain disease-causing bacteria and other organisms which can lead to gastroenteritis and other illnesses, some of which can be life-threatening,” Dr Williams said.

Dr Williams said even drinking raw milk from suppliers with the highest hygiene and safety standards can be dangerous as any raw cow milk can contain bugs.

New Zealand legislation allows producers to sell up to five litres of raw milk daily at the farm gate to buyers who purchase it for themselves or their family.