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The facts: Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin is banned in 5 countries/regions (including European Union, Canada, Japan, Australia), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Conventional US milk, Conventional US cheese, Conventional US yogurt.
TL;DR: Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | — |
| Where it shows up | Conventional US milk, Conventional US cheese, Conventional US yogurt, Conventional US ice cream, Any dairy not labeled rBGH-free or organic |
Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rBST) is the synthetic version of bovine growth hormone (BST), naturally produced by the pituitary gland in cattle. The recombinant version is produced using genetically engineered bacteria and is injected into dairy cows to increase milk production by 10-15%. Brand name: Posilac.
Dairy producers use rBST to increase milk yield per cow, improving the economics of dairy production. It was FDA-approved in 1993. The dairy industry argued it reduced production costs and environmental footprint per unit of milk produced.
See recombinant-bovine-growth-hormone-rbgh for full detail. Key concerns: rBST elevates IGF-1 in milk; elevated blood IGF-1 is associated with breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer risk in epidemiological studies. Animal welfare: increased mastitis (up to 25-50% higher rates), lameness, and antibiotic use. The Codex Alimentarius Commission declined to endorse rBST safety MRLs in a historic 33-29 vote. Health Canada rejected rBST approval in 1999 after finding it caused significant animal health problems requiring increased antibiotic use.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Yes. Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin is banned in European Union, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand. The FDA still allows it in the US.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Conventional US milk, Conventional US cheese, Conventional US yogurt, Conventional US ice cream, Any dairy not labeled rBGH-free or organic. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin.
USDA Organic dairy is rBST-free by law. Look for 'rBGH-free,' 'rBST-free,' or 'No artificial hormones' labeling on conventional dairy. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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