Dairy FAQ
Frequently asked questions about dairy
What is bovine growth hormone?
It is a naturally occurring
hormone in cattle that regulates growth and milk production. It may
also be produced by genetic engineering and injected to cows to
increase milk production. Also called bovine somatotropin (bST).
What is rBGH?
Recombinant
Bovine Growth Hormone is a controversial, genetically engineered
version of the Bovine Growth Hormone injected into cows to increase
milk production. Also known as recombinant Bovine Somatotropin (rBST)
and marketed by the Monsanto Company as Posilac, it is injected into
roughly 20% of U.S. dairy cattle, but banned in Canada, the E.U.,
Australia, and Japan.
What foods have rBGH in them?
Any
dairy products that are not labeled organic could have been produced by
cows that received rBGH. Look for organic dairy brands or brands
labeled rBGH-free or rBST-free to avoid food made with this growth
hormone.
What is MPC or “milk protein concentrate”?
Also known as MPCs, the inclusion of this low-quality milk substance in dairy products is controversial because it is often imported cheaply and has not been tested for safety by the FDA.
Fact Sheets
Reports
- rBGH: How Artificial Hormones Damage the Dairy Industry and Endanger Public Health — Recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH), also cal ...