Bovine growth hormone (rBGH)

Years ago, agrochemical giant Monsanto developed a genetically engineered bovine growth hormone (rBGH) to artificially increase milk production in cows. Cows injected with rBGH suffer greater stress and higher incidences of painful udder infections, reproductive disorders, swollen legs and premature death. Health Canada scientists have also raised concerns over rBGH passing on to humans through consumption, and that “such long-term health risks as sterility, infertility, birth defects, cancer and immunological consequences ha[ve] not been investigated.”

In response, the Council of Canadians and our supporters from across the country came together to help lead a massive grassroots campaign that succeeded in pressuring the Canadian government to keep this harmful substance out of our cows and dairy supply. To this day, rBGH is illegal for use in Canada. However, new trade developments could threaten these gains. We must remain vigilant in challenging trade deals that undermine the public interest.