What Is rBGH And Why Is It Necessary?
rBGH is a genetically-engineered hormone that increases a cow’s milk production. This increase can cause udders to become infected (mastitis), requiring antibiotics to be administered. It also reduces the life span of the cow. Milk produced using rBGH contains high levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 or IGH-1, which has been linked to human breast and gastrointestinal cancers. The Canadian government did not approve the use of rBGH for consumption, stating that more tests for human safety were required by its manufacturers, but in the United States, unless it’s labeled organic or rBGH free, yogurts marketed for children can contain rBGH. The FDA approved the use of rBGH in 1993. Any commercial diary products produced after this date that are not labeled rBGH free or certified organic may be from cows treated with rBHG. Healthful Alternatives Healthful alternatives exist to the nutri-grain bars and similar child-friendly snacks. For example, Natures Choice made by Barbaras Bakery mak
