For the last 25 years, the Food and Drug Administration has prohibited the sale and distribution of raw milk products due to food safety issues, although individual states have the authority to establish their own regulations regarding raw milk sales. While the FDA maintains that pasteurization does not diminish the nutritional value of milk, advocates for raw milk contend that it is richer in vitamins, minerals, and beneficial proteins, enzymes, and bacteria. Tamarack Biotics seeks to harness the potential advantages of raw milk while addressing safety concerns by employing a process that bypasses pasteurization and spray drying. Their products are never heated beyond 53°C, yet the company asserts that they meet the same safety standards as other milk products.
The rising demand for raw milk products appears to be part of a larger trend, with consumers increasingly interested in foods that are as close to their natural forms as possible. Although overall milk consumption has been steadily declining since the 1970s, there has been a notable increase in the consumption of whole milk, possibly influenced by recent research suggesting that milk fat may offer more health benefits than previously believed. Additionally, sales of organic milk have also seen an uptick.
Tamarack Biotics’ product has achieved self-affirmed GRAS status, which involves independent expert safety evaluations. This status requires the company to be ready to defend the safety of its product; however, it is not subject to systematic checks by the FDA, unlike FDA-approved GRAS status. The company also plans to target the lucrative sports nutrition market with its new offering, aiming to enhance performance and recovery. This sector experienced a 12% growth last year, according to Euromonitor International.
Furthermore, Tamarack Biotics is considering incorporating a calcium citrate with vitamin D combination into its product line, which could appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for added nutritional benefits. This combination is particularly significant as it can enhance the absorption of calcium, supporting bone health, which is increasingly important in the wellness community. As the demand for products combining raw milk benefits with essential nutrients like calcium continues to grow, Tamarack Biotics is well-positioned to meet this emerging consumer preference.