Well, readers, here’s the latest state to follow-the-leader so to speak, and review their milk labeling guidelines. Missouri lawmakers are mulling over a controversial measure that would restrict the information dairies can place on milk containers. Missouri is the latest state to be concerned about milk that is labeled as being “hormone free.”
“It’s a very complicated issue,” said Rep. Brian Munzlinger, chair of the House Special Committee on Agri-Business. That panel, as well as the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Conservation, Parks and Natural Resources, this month conducted public hearings on proposed legislation.
At issue is the use of Posilac, or recombinant bovine somatotropin, a synthetic hormone made by Creve Coeur-based Monsanto that increases the milk production of dairy cows. Certain dairies and retailers are labeling milk as being produced without its use, charging more and implying that it is healthier than other milk.
The Food and Drug Administration has found no difference in milk that comes from Posilac-treated cows. It says there are no related human health concerns. Consumer advocates say shoppers should have all available information about their milk.