Why must milk from cows treated with antibiotics be withheld from the milk supply?

Milk from cows treated with antibiotics must be withheld from the milk supply primarily because some humans can be sensitive to antibiotics. This sensitivity can lead to allergic reactions or other health issues for those consuming the milk. The presence of antibiotic residues in milk poses a risk to consumers, particularly for individuals who may have allergies or sensitivities to specific antibiotics.

Additionally, regulations and standards in the dairy industry are strict regarding antibiotic use to ensure food safety. The detection of antibiotic residues in milk can also harm the dairy industry as it could lead to contaminated products, health concerns, and significant financial losses due to product recalls and safety investigations. Therefore, to protect consumer health and uphold industry standards, it is crucial to ensure that milk from treated cows is kept out of the supply chain until all residues have cleared the system.