 Milk has been pulled
from stores and formal apologies extended by the Chinese
government and the firm responsible."The take-home message
for U.S. consumers is that the U.S. dairy supply is safe due to
the constant testing and regulation for food safety," he said.
"No antibiotics, pesticides, herbicides or other chemicals can
be added to U.S. milk. And all milk is monitored, regardless of
type -- organic, natural and conventional."
Melamine, the additive that caused problems in China's milk,
contains nitrogen, which increases the protein content in milk
when tested. By adding this compound, milk appears to have a
higher protein content and nutrient value. The addition was an
attempt by some Chinese dairy operations to artificially provide
their product with a higher nutrient level.
Because Chinese milk products can be found in numerous food
products sold in the world, including the United States, such as
candies, cakes and baked goods, these products have been
recalled, he noted.
"U.S. dairy managers know the importance of guarding milk
quality and following safe practices when feeding and managing
dairy cows," Hutjens said.
"Consumers should continue to monitor where their food
sources are coming from as these problems continue to occur in
the food chain, including products such as vegetables, spinach
and lettuce."
[Text from file received from
University of
Illinois Extension] |
