The effects of rbgh used on cows
Can growth hormones used on cows affect the cows or even us?
Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone
rBGH is a product used mostly on dairy cattle to increase the cows production of milk. In the early 2000's the N.A.S.S., or National Agriculture Statistics Service, found out ( by survey) that around 17% of of milk producers used Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone ( rbGH ).
FUN FACT!
The United States started using rBGH in 1994. It is now sold in all states.
Is rBGH banned anywhere?
Many countries have banned this drug because the think of it not safe for human consumption. Countries including Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union.
A milk carton with milk not treated with rBGH.
Dairy cows eating straw.
A milk factory using rBGH on cows.
Effects of hormones on cows
Cows are affected in many ways be these drugs, from hoof disorders to increased the amount of pus that goes into the milk. It can also do other things like increase the risk of a cow getting clinical mastitis (a disease of the udder) by 25%, make the cow have reduced pregnancy rates,and/or make the milk visibly abnormal.
More fun facts!
In the May of 1992, a study by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, reveled that 38% of milk on the market had illegal antibiotics!
Effects of hormones on humans
Milk treated with rBGH can do many things to us. For example it can increase the risk of getting cancer, create antibody resistance, and make you have digestive disorders.
Even more fun facts!
Due to the bad name, many milk producers and manufactures have stopped selling milk with rBGH. These companies include Kirkland, Kroger, Braums, Starbucks, Yoplait, and Wal-Mart.
What you have all been waiting for!
And yes, rBGH can make a cows udder squishier...