Do your part - Educate
I was recently returning home with a full day of flights from the West Coast when I started a conversation in the airport with a fellow passenger. We both realized we travel a bit, so we just started comparing generic travel related stories until he asked what I did for work.
When I told Jim, the random airport traveler, I was a dairy veterinarian he immediately had questions for me. Fortunately, we were on the same flight and managed to sit next to each other so we could have a long conversation about modern dairy and agriculture, milk consumption, food safety and food purchase decisions.
Early in the conversation, Jim told me he often had debates with his "tree hugger" wife (his words, not mine) who would only purchase organic dairy products and recently began to purchase raw milk for the family. This provided an excellent opportunity to educate Jim with the facts about biotechnology, such as rBST and GMOs; organic versus conventional production; and the overall safety of our food supply.
Easily Confused
There are many types of production systems in modern agriculture, which often, as in this instance with Jim and his wife, lead to confusion. It is important to recognize the available science and research and be very careful about taking sides when communicating with the general public.
Within our industry, we need to deliver a common message to our consumers. Everyone is entitled to and likely has an opinion, but we need to communicate the facts to support our industry as a whole. If an organic producer infers conventional production is less welfare friendly or conventional food products are less safe, then we add uncertainty about the wholesomeness of dairy products in general.
Market research has shown if we create uncertainty about a particular food product, a consumer might discontinue consuming a product altogether as opposed to choosing rBST-free or organic.
In-Flight Education Opportunity
During the flight with Jim, I took the opportunity to discuss the different types of production systems and lent support for the various methods. With my computer handy, I was able to quote various published research articles to support my comments were not just opinion but backed by research and testing. I also took the opportunity to email Jim several research articles and food safety and animal welfare brochures for further reading for both him and his wife.
When the topic of raw milk came up, it provided an excellent opportunity to discuss the safety of our food supply. Pasteurization is one of the most basic, safe and longstanding food treatment techniques to protect us from foodborne pathogens. Why would we risk the health of our family by disregarding this proven technique?
I challenge everyone reading this column to do your part to educate when the opportunity arises. Misconceptions only allow doubt to thrive. Take advantage of social media, speaking engagements and any opportunity to engage in a discussion based on facts. Take the time to educate consumers about the benefits of the safe, wholesome nutrients that can be derived from dairy products.
