Committee votes for ban on BST
Bovine somatotrophin (BST) should not be used in dairy cows, according to the Scientific Committee on Animal Health and Animal Welfare (SCAHAW). BST is a synthetic, genetically engineered, drug based on a cow's naturally occurring growth hormone. It is normally injected into dairy cows every two weeks to increase milk production. However, BST use substantially increases foot problems, mastitis and reactions at sites where injections are given to dairy cows according to a SCAHAW report adopted on 10 March 1999 by the Committee on Animal Health and Animal Welfare. BST causes reproductive disorders, and painful and debilitating conditions, leading to suffering and significantly poorer welfare of the animals. The 18 independent scientists of the Committee unanimously concluded that, from the point of view of animal welfare and health, BST should not be used. The Scientific Committee on Veterinary Measures related to Public Health is expected to adopt an opinion on the effects of the use of BST on human health in the near future.