Non-Profit Group Attempts to Milk the Indy 500

There are few things on this green earth that get up my nose further than people trying to shove their lifestyle onto others through loud media campaigns. Sure, there are some universal truths to which we should all adhere – be kind to animals, take care of yer children, and don’t anger the Managing Editor* – but loudly pushing ideals ain’t one of ‘em.

The impetus for this mini-rant is the appearance of billboards near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway bearing the phrase ‘Winners DON’T Drink Milk’ as part of an ad campaign by a non-profit organization bent on getting people to stop drinking the stuff.

According to reports from the agriculture world, a group called the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is jumping up and down claiming cow’s milk can increase the risk of prostate and breast cancers, among other health problems. In a letter to the president of Indy, it is asserted that there is no apparent health rationale for recommending cow’s milk over plant-based milks. Ah, there it is.

Interestingly, one source cited by the non-profit is a 2015 study that states verbatim that “dairy product and calcium intakes have been associated with increased prostate cancer risk, but whether specific dairy products or calcium sources are associated with risk is unclear.” It goes on to suggest that “high intakes” of dairy products but not supplemental or nondairy calcium may increase cancer risk. There are umpteen different and common sources of the latter which many people consume regularly, such as sweet potatoes and broccoli and even the southern staple of collard greens. Orange juice is a decent source as well. In other words, it really seems like the non-profit chose to cheery pick an incredibly specific dataset and ran with it.

Of course, certain corners of the internet remain eager to point out that humans are one of (if not the only) beings on this planet to drink the milk of a different species. We’re also the only known species to cook brisket on a Traeger grill or expertly heel-and-toe a Mazda MX-5; doesn’t mean this author will be stopping either of those activities any time soon.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to the fridge to pour myself a tall glass of cold skim milk. Cheers.

*Ed. here -- I have no anger issues. Just ask Matthew once I let him out of the trunk because he didn't use the Oxford comma. Gotta make sure he remembers for next time!

[Image: Indianapolis Motor Speedway]

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