A Monsanto-funded study by scientists at Cornell University
measured the concentrations of heart-healthy fatty acids in 292
samples of conventional rbST, and organic whole milk. The study
was needed, according to the authors, to clear up "confusion"
among consumers over nutritional differences between
conventional, rbST, and organic milk.
The team found significant differences in the two key fatty
acids that are higher in organic milk - conjugated linoleic acid
(CLA) and omega 3 fatty acids. CLA levels were 23% higher in
the organic milk compared to conventional and rbST milk, and
omega 3 levels were 63% higher.
The authors dismissed the differences as not nutritionally
relevant, reflecting accurately their opinions but not hundreds
of studies on the health benefits of elevated CLA and omega 3
intakes.
In fact, this study actually confirms what several other studies
have found - organic milk contains significantly higher
concentrations of health-promoting fatty acids, especially
during the times of the year when cows are feeding on lush
pastures.
Source: A.M. O'Donnell, K.P. Spatny, J.L. Vicini, and D.E.
Bauman, "Survey of the fatty acid composition of retail milk
differing in label claims based on production management
practices," Journal of Dairy Science, Vol. 93, Pages 1918-1925.
January 2010.