Erling Haaland: Why does the Manchester City striker drink raw milk and why does it cause controversy?

Despite being listed as a “risky” product, the FCA told BBC Sport there has been an increase in the popularity of raw milk because “people believe it has health benefits” – although it says there is little reliable scientific evidence to support this.

The farm where Haaland was filmed buying milk wrote on Facebook that its product had been “somewhat in demand” since the episode was published, staff were “exhausted,” and it hoped to “purchase a new dairy cow very soon” so orders could be filled more quickly.

Dan Richardson, a former City academy nutritionist, told BBC Sport that he would always look for “the safest approach possible” so as to “not compromise food safety”.

“The challenge with raw milk is that you can get some companies that do a good job of reducing the risk factor for bacteria, and I’m sure Haaland will use the premium quality available out there,” he said.

“The dietitian will not allow him to buy raw milk which has a high risk of contamination. When people start imitating these eating habits, it can become unsafe as people will go out and buy the cheaper, more accessible version which may carry food borne illnesses.”

Asked if he felt drinking raw milk would gain traction, Richardson said: “Unfortunately, I can see it happening.”

For Haaland, drinking raw milk is part of an unorthodox off-pitch routine that also includes red light therapy and adding maple syrup to his coffee.

Richardson added: “Young athletes need to remember that getting the right amount of carbohydrates, eating protein and eating three regular meals with snacks is a better approach than jumping on trends.

“Some athletes will try to find a quick fix by replicating a role model rather than doing the mundane things really well.

“We just want to use safe food wherever possible.”