Investigation into deadly "bath milk"

An Australian and New Zealand research group will investigate ways to stop people consuming raw cow's milk being marketed as "bath milk".

The unpasteurized milk is ostensibly sold as a skin-cosmetic product to bathe in, but many purchasers actually buy it to drink believing it has multiple health benefits.

But government health departments have declared it a health hazard after an Australian infant died after being fed raw milk while others have fallen ill.

However supporters of consuming raw milk have questioned the authorities linking raw milk with the death and illness, and claim there is a conspiracy against raw milk.

Several farms selling raw milk in less-than bath filling amounts have been shut down in the state of New South Wales.

But a meeting of Australian and New Zealand government ministers on Friday said the working group would be established to consider options for a national approach to prevent the consumption of the cosmetic product. Endi