Spring Break
Letters to the editor
Issue date: 2/13/09 Section: Ed-Op
Dear Editor,
The artificial growth hormone, rBGH, is a synthetic hormone injected into cows to increase milk production. rBGH is linked to an increased risk of colon and breast cancer - a fact recognized by many industrialized nations. As milk without synthetic hormones becomes more affordable, there is no reason public school students should have limited access to healthier dairy products.
Philadelphia schools, which already serve rBGH-free milk, show that school systems can provide healthy and inexpensive milk. The language in the current Child Nutrition Act is unclear, confusing many school officials as to whether or not they have the ability to choose what milk is being served in their cafeterias. The act's upcoming renewal this year gives our elected representatives, particularly Sen. Bob Casey, Jr. (D-Pa.), a chance to clarify the wording and give school boards the full power to make decisions about nutrition. The potential health risks of rBGH can be prevented by a simple change of language, and it is up to Sen. Casey to make this effort.
Tim Boom
Junior, International Area Studies
The artificial growth hormone, rBGH, is a synthetic hormone injected into cows to increase milk production. rBGH is linked to an increased risk of colon and breast cancer - a fact recognized by many industrialized nations. As milk without synthetic hormones becomes more affordable, there is no reason public school students should have limited access to healthier dairy products.
Philadelphia schools, which already serve rBGH-free milk, show that school systems can provide healthy and inexpensive milk. The language in the current Child Nutrition Act is unclear, confusing many school officials as to whether or not they have the ability to choose what milk is being served in their cafeterias. The act's upcoming renewal this year gives our elected representatives, particularly Sen. Bob Casey, Jr. (D-Pa.), a chance to clarify the wording and give school boards the full power to make decisions about nutrition. The potential health risks of rBGH can be prevented by a simple change of language, and it is up to Sen. Casey to make this effort.
Tim Boom
Junior, International Area Studies
Be the first to comment on this story