Norwegian Manchester City striker Erling Haaland sparked a wide-ranging discussion on the consumption of unpasteurized milk after revealing details of his regular diet in the first video on his new YouTube channel. Haaland's (25 years old) first video, published on his new official channel, garnered over five million views, but sparked a wider debate than just a showcase of 'a day in the life of a professional footballer'. In the episode, where Haaland covered his daily routine, enjoyment of cooking, and eating 'tomahawk' steaks, he also revealed his ongoing habit of drinking raw, unpasteurized milk. This substance is not sold in major supermarkets despite being legal to sell in England. Haaland, filmed visiting a farm in Cheshire to get his supplies of raw milk, described it as a 'superfood' that he believes is 'good for the stomach, skin, bones, and muscles', confirming that this is 'the reason he drinks it'. Sources close to the striker told BBC Sport that Haaland drinks a glass every morning and another after training — a habit that has been part of his life for a long time. Despite Haaland's belief in its benefits as a 'life choice' not solely aimed at sports nutrition, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) issued a clear warning, stating that 'raw milk may contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning', advising vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and children, to avoid its consumption. Natasha Smith, deputy director of policy at the FSA, clarified that the bacteria causing poisoning can be present in heat-treated (unpasteurized) milk, noting that control over producers is tightened to support 'consumer choice', while emphasizing the need for at-risk groups to avoid it.
