Organic Valley's Explicit Commitment to Being rbST Free
Organic Valley is a cooperative of small family farms with a long-standing commitment to organic and ethical farming practices. This includes a clear policy against the use of synthetic hormones like recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST), which is also known as recombinant bovine growth hormone (rbGH). Their website and product descriptions consistently confirm that their cows are not treated with rbST. This practice is not only about following a rule but is central to their philosophy of prioritizing animal welfare and sustainable agriculture.
Going Beyond the USDA Organic Standard
While the USDA organic certification already prohibits the use of synthetic growth hormones, Organic Valley takes their commitment a step further. Their internal cooperative standards forbid the use of any added hormones, even those that might be permitted under less stringent organic guidelines. This reinforces their dedication to producing milk as naturally as possible, without artificially pushing cows to increase production.
What is rbST and Why Do Consumers Care?
rbST is a synthetic, lab-produced hormone that is injected into dairy cows to increase milk production. While the FDA has determined that milk from rbST-treated cows is safe for human consumption, many consumers have expressed concerns for various reasons. For many, the choice to buy rbST-free products is rooted in principles related to animal welfare, as studies have shown potential health problems for cows receiving the injections. For others, it's about choosing dairy products produced using more traditional and natural methods.
Animal Welfare: A Core Tenet of Organic Valley's Philosophy
Organic Valley's stance on rbST is part of a broader commitment to animal care. They believe that cows and other farm animals should be allowed to grow and produce at their own natural pace. By not injecting synthetic hormones, they prioritize the long-term health and well-being of their herds. This holistic approach is why their cows are also pasture-raised, spending significant time grazing outdoors, which contributes to overall cow health and the nutritional profile of the milk.
Comparison: Organic Valley vs. Conventional Dairy Practices
| Feature | Organic Valley (Organic Dairy) | Conventional Dairy | Benefits for Consumers & Animals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Hormones (rbST/rbGH) | Not Used. Prohibited by USDA organic and Organic Valley's own standards. | May be Used. Depends on the farm's practices; FDA-approved but not required to be labeled. | Supports animal welfare and avoids consumer concern over synthetic hormone use. |
| Antibiotics | Not Used for Prevention. Prohibited by USDA organic. Sick animals are treated, but their milk is kept separate and they lose organic certification. | Used for Prevention and Treatment. Routine use is common to prevent illness in crowded conditions. | Promotes responsible antibiotic use and reduces risk of antibiotic resistance. |
| Pasture Access | Required. USDA standards mandate pasture access for at least 120 days per year and 30% of their diet from grazing. | Not Required. Many cows are confined indoors for their entire lives. | Improves cow health, reduces stress, and enhances the nutritional quality of the milk. |
| GMOs | Not Used. Prohibited by USDA organic standards for feed and other inputs. | May be Used. Genetically modified feed (e.g., corn, soy) is common. | Avoids genetically modified ingredients throughout the production chain. |
How to Be Sure Your Dairy is rbST Free
When shopping for dairy, the easiest way to ensure it's rbST-free is to look for the USDA Organic seal. This certification guarantees that the product was produced without synthetic hormones. However, many conventional dairy brands also choose not to use rbST and will explicitly state "no rbST" or "rbST-free" on their packaging. A brand's explicit promise, like Organic Valley's, provides extra assurance of their commitment to this practice.
- Read the Label: Look for a clear statement indicating "no synthetic hormones" or "rbST-free."
- Look for the USDA Organic Seal: This is a reliable indicator that the product adheres to federal regulations prohibiting synthetic growth hormones.
- Trust the Brand: Brands like Organic Valley have built their reputation on these ethical standards, making it a reliable choice for consumers who prioritize such practices.
What About Other Organic Valley Products?
Organic Valley's rbST-free commitment extends beyond just their milk. This policy applies to all of their dairy products, including cheese, butter, yogurt, and more. The foundational farming and cooperative standards ensure that all dairy inputs are sourced from cows that are not treated with synthetic hormones. This allows consumers to trust that the entire line of dairy items reflects the same high-quality, organic, and humane practices. Learn more about Organic Valley's commitment to humane and organic farming directly from their website: Organic Valley rBGH Decoded.
Conclusion
The answer to "Is Organic Valley rbST free?" is a definitive yes. This fact is rooted in the cooperative's adherence to and expansion upon the USDA organic standards, which already prohibit synthetic hormone use. By choosing Organic Valley products, consumers can be confident they are supporting a system that values animal welfare, natural production cycles, and provides assurance that synthetic growth hormones are not part of their dairy supply chain. This transparency and commitment make Organic Valley a trusted choice for many seeking ethically produced, high-quality organic dairy.
