Food & Water Watch

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.