The debate over raw milk consumption has been fairly local and quiet in the U.S., but in Canada, it’s grabbed headlines of late. In November, a farmer who has been at the center of the controversy for more than ten years went on a hunger strike, following a renewed government crackdown on his cow share operation.

During the debate that followed, Ontario Finance Minister Greg Sorbara called on the province to consider legalizing raw-milk sales. But Canadian Premier Dalton McGuinty firmly rejected the idea, citing public health reasons. And the health ministry issued a strong public warning saying unpasteurized milk poses a great health risk.

Sorbara confirmed that his wife, Katie, owns a share in the cows at the center of the controversy.

Michael Schmidt, the Owen Sound-area farmer raided and charged with distributing raw milk illegally, has said 150 people have paid roughly $300 each to join his program.