Rock & Roll Farm

Tuesday! Mar 01 2005 // 5:05 pm //

Tillamook dairies uphold hormone ban

The Oregonian
3/1/05
ALEX PULASKI

“The Tillamook County Creamery Association’s dairy farmers voted Monday to uphold a ban prohibiting them from vaccinating cows with an artificial growth hormone.

Monday’s vote of 83-43 appears to conclude a struggle between the association’s board and managers, who supported the ban, and some dairies and Monsanto Co., which opposed it. Monsanto manufactures the genetically engineered growth hormone, designed to cause cows to produce more milk, under the brand name Posilac.”

“The board based its decision on increasing inquiries by consumers over the hormone’s use. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has concluded that milk derived from cows treated with the hormone is safe for human consumption, but some consumers worry about potential cancer risks and increased antibiotic use by dairies treating cows for udder infections.

Though studies differ, there is evidence to suggest that cows treated with Posilac run increased risks of udder infections and lameness.”

“…the next step by the creamery will be to ensure that its suppliers of butter, sour cream, yogurt and cream also are keeping Posilac from being used by their dairies.”