In response to an advertisement suggesting milk with the rbST supplement is less than healthy, the Dairy Farmers of Utah today reaffirmed that all milk sold in Utah is FDA-approved and safe for consumption. Many farmers, manufacturers and retailers support different types of milk production that may or may not include the use of rbST.

"The dairy industry is one of the most strictly regulated industries in the country, and it's all to ensure our milk is safe for consumption," said Karen Koncar, Dairy Farmers of Utah general manager. "We want consumers to know the dairy products in our market are pure and wholesome so they are not swayed by an ad campaign that could potentially mislead."

Bovine somatotropin (bST) is a naturally occurring protein found in cow's milk. bST is critical for calf growth and milk production in cows. A small amount of bST is present in all milk, including organic products. In 1993, the FDA approved a synthetic form of bST for use in dairy cows. Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) extends a cow's lactation period, increasing milk production. This is a management tool for dairy farmers and in no way harms the cow or milk it produces. The composition and nutritional value of milk from cows supplemented with rbST is essentially the same as milk without the supplement.

"Dairy farmers and the entire dairy industry work vigorously to ensure that quality and safety of milk is the first priority," said Koncar. "It is one of the state's oldest family-run industries with integrity and the consumer at top of mind."

Providing the nine essential nutrients needed for a healthy lifestyle, American dairy products are among the safest in the world. Dairy Farmers of Utah and the dairy industry support consumer choice for dairy products, and some farmers, manufacturers and retailers support different types of production that may or may not include the use of rbST. All milk is wholesome, safe, and nutritious and contains the same combination of nutrients.

The Dairy Farmers of Utah represent the interests of nearly 400 dairy farmers in Utah. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to promoting healthy products produced by the dairy industry. For more information on the dairy industry or rbST, visit www.dairycouncilutnv.org or one of the following resources:

Dairy Farming Today

National Dairy Council Food Safety Fact Sheet

FDA's Position on the Safety of rbST

Cornell University rbST Fact Sheet

The dairy industry honored Reed Balls for his life-long service to agriculture at its 55th annual Dairy Convention in St. George, Utah, on Friday, March 16.

"Throughout his career, Reed worked with government officials, financial institutions and industry leaders to help make agriculture a leading industry in Utah," said Karen Koncar, Utah Dairy Council general manager. "His dedication to the dairy industry is shown through his tireless work for the Dairy Advisory Committee and Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom."

Balls' love of agriculture stems from his youth, when he worked on his grandfather's Soda Springs, Idaho, farm. He went on to work for U&I Sugar Company and Farm Bureau Insurance Company. In September 1986, he joined Utah Farm Bureau Federation as vice president of member relations and director of organization, and was elected as officer of the corporation in 1997. He recently became executive secretary for Utah Wool Growers Association.

"We are pleased to honor Reed for his life-long commitment to preserving and bettering the agricultural community in Utah," Koncar said. "His work sets an example and gives others the desire to continue what he began."

The 55th annual Dairy Convention, hosted by the Utah Dairy Commission, allows dairy farmers to connect on issues relating to their industry. The Utah Dairy Commission represents the interests of nearly 400 dairy farmers in Utah. The non-profit organization is dedicated to promoting healthy products produced by the dairy industry.

Cassie Amber Barton, of Box Elder County, was crowned Utah Dairy Princess at the 55th annual Utah Dairy Scholarship Pageant at the Dixie Center in St. George. Her attendants are Shannon Griffiths, Utah County, and Sky Lynn Sidwell, Morgan County. The new royalty will promote the dairy industry and provide nutrition education in schools throughout the year.

Shannon Griffiths was also voted Miss Congeniality by the pageant contestants. The award is given to the woman showing the most warmth, friendliness and helpfulness to others during the pageant.

Barton currently attends Utah State University, majoring in Pre-Med. She is a reader for a blind student, loves reading and being active and involved in her community. In high school, she was valedictorian, president of 4-H Teen Council, a youth volunteer and cheerleader. As state Dairy Princess she received a $2,000 scholarship to assist in her educational pursuits. Her platform is "Make 3-A-Day the American Way." She is the daughter of Leonard and Shannon Barton.

The co-attendants, equal in position and responsibility, each receive a $1,000 scholarship. Shannon Griffiths attends BYU-Idaho and is pursuing a career in information systems with a minor in health science and culinary arts. Her platform is "Think Your Drink." She is the daughter of Steve and Gina Griffiths.

Sky Lynn Sidwell is a University of Utah student, majoring in philosophy and psychology. Her platform is "Dairy's Role in Maintaining a Healthy Weight." She is the daughter of Cameron and Kay Sidwell.

The 2007 Dairy Princess Royalty were selected from 9 county princesses, based on knowledge of the dairy industry, personal interviews, physical fitness and their response to on-stage questions. Pageant participants must be of high moral character, maintain a 2.8 GPA and be a single woman between the ages of 17 and 25.

During their reign, the women will tour the state to educate Utahns about the dairy industry and general nutrition. They also promote dairy products, good nutrition and living healthy lifestyles, serving as positive role models for Utah youth.