The Milk Producer - July 2010 - (Page 16)

NATIONALPOLICY Testing rolled out An essential trace element, iodine must be carefully managed to ensure optimum level ilk iodine levels can vary widely from one dairy herd to the next, recent research has shown. A new bulk tank milk testing program being rolled out this fall across Canada will help producers ensure their milk contains sufficient levels, but not too much, of this important nutrient. Iodine is a trace element that is necessary to both human and animal health. It must be available in sufficient quantity in food, because the body cannot synthesize or store it for long periods. In humans, iodine deficiency can cause goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland), delayed growth and various mental disorders. It is added to table salt to prevent deficiency. With dietary reductions in salt being recommended, cow milk is an important source of iodine. Cow milk helps Canadians meet their daily iodine requirement. When present in excessive amounts, iodine can deregulate the thyroid gland and cause hypothyroid problems. Like all elements consumed in trace amounts, there is a fine line between too much and not enough. Iodine also has a substantial impact on the dairy cow’s metabolism. Editor’s note: this article was developed by provincial milk marketing organizations in cooperation with Dairy Farmers of Canada to inform all producers about this new program. 16 | July 2010 | MilkPRODUCER M A dipper is recommended over a sprayer for applying pre- and post-milking dip products.

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Milk Producer - July 2010

The Milk Producer - July 2010
Contents
Editor's Notes
DFO Chair’s Message
Diary Update
DFO
National Policy
DFC Promotion
Thrill of the Grill
Farm Finance
Foundation for Our Future
Agriculture Minister’s Message
General Manger’s Message
Overview
Then and Now:
Notable Quotes:
Grant Smith
Gordon Coukell
Peter Oosterhoff
Vera Mitchell
Bill Simpson
Lew Dunk
Albert Gauthier
Gary Marshall
Stuart Steckle
Tom Kane
Pat McManus
Research
Applied Science
Ruminations
Markets
New’N’Noted
Back Forty

The Milk Producer - July 2010