Myth #1: Milk is full of hormones.
There are people who believe that cows are treated with hormones to increase milk production, and that we are in turn unknowingly consuming these hormones as a result. This is simply untrue – in the EU there has been a law in place since 1999 making it illegal to use hormones to boost the amount of milk a cow produces.
Myth #2: Milk contains antibiotics.
There is also legislation in place regarding antibiotics – if a cow is sick and treated with antibiotics, the milk is not allowed to be sold until the antibiotics have cleared the cow’s system. To ensure compliance, milk loads are regularly tested before being collected and processed. If even trace amounts are detected, the whole tanker full of milk is rejected and the farmer can be fined thousands of pounds. So you can enjoy your milk without worrying about any hidden nasties.
Myth #3: Humans aren’t designed to drink cows milk
Humans have been drinking milk for over 6000 years, with its popularity persisting due to the rich nutritional profile, low cost and ready accessibility – few other food items can boast this sort of longevity! Lactose intolerance is estimated to affect only around 5% of the UK population and tends to be genetic. Lactose is the naturally occurring sugar found in milk, and intolerance is due the absence of an enzyme called lactase which is needed to digest this sugar.
Myth #4: Plant-based milk is healthier for you.
Plant-based milk alternatives have increased in popularity over recent years as we all look for ways to improve our carbon footprint. But are they a good alternative to cow’s milk when it comes to your health? Plant-based versions – unless fortified – lack the range of essential nutrients that cow’s milk provides, including calcium, phosphorus, iodine, vitamins B2 and B12. Milk protein is also considered to be of higher quality than plant protein due to its balance of amino acids and easier digestion. For people who want or need to choose plant-based milk alternatives, it is recommended you choose one that is fortified with calcium and ideally other vitamins and minerals.
Read more myth-busting facts: here.