Got rBGH? Policy tools to protect consumers from artificial growth hormones in the U.S. dairy supply

Recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) is a synthetic hormone given to cows to increase their milk production. After extensive reviews of the scientific literature, both the European Union and Canadian authorities elected to prohibit the use of rBGH. In contrast, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug for commercial use in 1993, despite concerns raised by the General Accounting Office over the potential human health impacts of the drug. Evidence continues to suggest an impact on human health from increased antibiotic use and elevated IGF-1 in rBGH-treated cows. The latter may be linked to some types of human cancer. Although over 40% of large U.S. dairies continue to use rBGH, a growing number of companies now prohibit use of the drug and label their milk as rBGH-free. Several state legislatures have proposed or passed laws that restrict or prohibit this type of labeling, arguing that there is no difference between milk from rBGH-treated cows and from those not given the drug. Drawing on some of the scientific research on the human health effects of rBGH, this presentation will discuss the labeling debate and explore other policy approaches that can help reduce milk consumers' exposure to rBGH.