The Truth About Dairy

Milk is full of healthy vitamins and minerals, but is it really good for you? Here's the truth about dairy. Is dairy the only source of calcium? No. You can also get it from foods like dark, leafy greens, beans, salmon, and low sugar fortified cereals. Pick reduced fat dairy products since these foods have less saturated fat.

Is it safe to drink cow's milk made with bovine growth hormone? Yes, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Bovine growth hormone boosts the amount of milk a cow makes. The FDA says this milk is safe for people to drink. But some groups, including the American Cancer Society, say more research is needed to clear up concerns about the potential for health risks. Regulators in Canada, the European Union, and other countries don't allow the hormone to be used.

Does organic milk really have a longer shelf life than regular milk? Yes. That's because it's pasteurized at a higher temperature. Unopened organic milk can last about 40 to 60 days in the fridge. The regular stuff stays fresh for about 15 to 17 days. But you need to drink either kind within seven to 10 days after you open it.

Does chocolate milk come from brown cows? A recent survey found that 7% of American adults believe chocolate milk comes from-- you guessed it-- brown cows.