New Mexico Health Officials Warn Against Raw Dairy After Infant Death

State urges residents to avoid unpasteurized milk products following a newborn's fatal Listeria infection.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

State health officials in New Mexico are warning residents to avoid consuming raw dairy products after the death of a newborn from a bacterial infection. Investigators believe the infant's mother's consumption of unpasteurized milk during pregnancy was the likely source of the fatal Listeria infection.

Why it matters

Raw dairy products have become more accessible in recent years as some states have loosened regulations, despite ongoing concerns about the risks of foodborne illnesses like Listeria, Salmonella, and E.coli. This case highlights the particular dangers for vulnerable populations like pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

The details

According to the New Mexico Department of Health, the agency has been unable to pinpoint the exact cause of the Listeria infection that killed the infant, but said the mother's consumption of unpasteurized milk during pregnancy was the 'most likely source.' Raw dairy products are legally available for sale in New Mexico with a permit, and the city of Albuquerque reversed a ban on raw milk sales in 2023.

  • In January 2026, a newborn infant in New Mexico died from a Listeria infection.
  • In 2025, several states including Arkansas, Utah, and North Dakota relaxed regulations around the sale of raw dairy products.

The players

New Mexico Department of Health

The state agency that is warning residents about the risks of consuming raw dairy products following an infant's death from a Listeria infection.

David Barre

The communications coordinator for the New Mexico Department of Health.

Dr. Chad Smelser

The deputy state epidemiologist for the New Mexico Department of Health.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Individuals who are pregnant should only consume pasteurized milk products to help prevent illnesses and deaths in newborns.”

— Dr. Chad Smelser, Deputy State Epidemiologist, New Mexico Department of Health (Source NM)

What’s next

The New Mexico Department of Health has not provided any additional details about the infant's death, citing privacy concerns for the family.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the continued risks of consuming raw dairy products, especially for vulnerable populations. It serves as a reminder for pregnant women and others to only consume pasteurized milk and dairy to prevent serious and potentially fatal bacterial infections.