Milk, It Does a Body Good---Except if You Live in China!

Two years ago when we moved to China, we updated our immunizations, read about potential enviromental Chinese threats, and were advised to NEVER drink water straight from the tap. We felt safe and confident that we were not putting ourselves into any dangerous conditions. After moving to Shanghai, NONE of the above have caused us any concerns, nor have we been sick from the food we eat here. However, a few weeks ago the Chinese milk scandal began. The Chinese were aware of the scandal several months before the Olympics, but kept it under lock and key until the show was over. The scandal first came to light in milk powder that killed four infants and sickened more than 6,000 others. Melamine, an industrial chemical normally used in plastics, is believed to have been added to diluted milk to make it appear higher in protein. When we first heard of the melamine in baby formula, we were quick to check the brand we use for Preston to see if it was safe. Chinese officials assured us the American brand "Infamil" whose factory in China manufactures the product was fine, and also insisted that most milk is safe to drink. Shortly after being assured of this, we find out that products from Shanghai-based Bright Dairy were also contaminated----the milk we drink every day!!!

Unfortunately, we had to make some drastic changes with our diets until this scandal is completely resolved. NO MORE fresh milk----only boxed milk imported from New Zealand, or France (will our cereal ever be the same?)

No more early morning Seminary Smoothies for Bracken!!!

And the MOST DRAMATIC change---No more nightly ice cream dessert orders (This one will surely do Tyson in!)

China's ability to police its food production industries has long been under question. Since the scandal broke a few weeks ago Chinese police have arrested 18 people in connection with the scandal. Countries all over the world are pulling products from their supermarket shelves---maybe this is what it will take for the Chinese to take this type of scandal completely serious! Until then, we will be overly cautious of our milk intake!