Cows raised on pasture, eating grasses instead of a grain-rich diet are healthier. Of course, this means moving them frequently and having enough land to do so. Taking the time to wash the udder before collecting milk and using clean equipment is important. I'm afraid that most dairies skimp on the cleanliness, expecting pasteurization to take care of the dirty milk.

Would I worry about parasites from raw milk obtained from a small, grass-based dairy? No. I'd love to have a source of raw milk near me so I can make yogurt or kefir for those breakfast smoothies made with raw eggs (from my own chickens ).