Hormone implants used to promote faster growth First product used in 1954: Diethylstilbestrol (DES) 6 anabolic steroids (in various combinations): 3.

Hormone implants used to promote faster growthFirst product used in 1954: Diethylstilbestrol (DES)6 anabolic steroids (in various combinations):

3 natural steroids (estradiol, progesterone, testosterone)

3 synthetic hormones (estrogen compund zeranol, androgen trenbolone acetate, progestin melengestrol acetate)

Approved by FDABanned by EU since 1988

hormone pellets are implanted in the animal under the skin behind the ears

The small time-release capsules slowly dole out the hormones over several weeks during key growth stages.

21 days of feeding time are eliminated10–15% increases in daily gains10-15% increase in carcass quality

(increased lean/fat ratio)lower beef prices

increased udder infections (mastitis)

severe reproductive problems

digestive disordersfoot and leg ailmentspersistent sores and

lacerations

At risk: fetus and prepubertal child—sensitive to exposure to sex steroids

“maternal beef consumption is associated with lower sperm concentration and possible subfertility”

Hormonal imbalance; interfering with the reproductive system

Early onset of puberty among females (increased risk for breast cancer)

Possible risk for cancer (e.g. breast, colon, prostate)

Most susceptible: pregnant and unborn

Contamination of surface and groundwater by manure

Aquaculture is affected through disruption of the natural cycle of fishesEffects of hormones

on gender and reproductive capacity of fish

FOR SWINE

Feed additives are compounds added to swine diets for the purpose of enhancing animal performance.

Several types:- Antibacterial agents- Natural chemotherapeutic agents- Antiparasiticides- Metabolic modifiers- Probiotics/Prebiotics, Botanicals, etc.

ANTIMICROBIALS: A major concern has been raised in food-animal systems over the use of antimicrobials that are also effective in human disease control.

CHEMOTHERAPEUTICS: Use of these compounds for extended periods at high levels may result in environmental contamination of ground where manure is spread.

ANTIMICROBIALS- The emergence of drug-resistant microbial

populations in humans and animals- There is potential for cross-contamination

between populations

CHEMOTHERAPEUTICS- Copper toxicity in sheep is attained at low

levels, particularly on low molybdenum containing pastures.

- Zinc compounds will also raise soil levels but most animals are less susceptible to toxicosis.

CHEMOTHERAPEUTICS- Inclusion of high levels of zinc oxide for

longer than 3 to 4 weeks or of levels higher than 250 ppm of copper sulfate for extended periods may cause direct toxic effects in pigs.

FOR HORMONES:Proper labeling of productsBreeding programmesRegulation of rumen fermentationDisease control

FOR FEEDS, label should indicate:Purpose of medicationDirections for useName and amount of chemicalsWithdrawal periodWarning against misuse

FOR FEEDS:FDA reminds producers that:

- Feed additives are performance tools- They are not substitutes for proper herd

management- Overuse is not equal to higher productivity

Be informedDemand for organic beefInformation campaign

Support research to further study effects and alternatives

Strict regulation

1. Which is not a negative consequence of hormones in beef ?A. Increased mastitis in cattleB. Increased cancer risk in consumersC. Delayed onset of puberty in female consumers D. Decrease in sperm production in male

consumers

Which of the following is false about feed additives for swine?

a.There is an FDA regulation regarding feed additives.b.Increasing amount of feed additives can compensate

for bad herd management.c.Both A and B.d.None of the above.

www.sustainabletable.org/issues/hormones/www.organicconsumers.org/Toxic/

hormoncancer.cfmhttp://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/

article_5543.cfmhttp://www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com/bgh.htmhttp://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/

0,9171,956754,00.html#ixzz0Z3Y30lSFhttp://www.fao.org/docrep/004/X6533E/

X6533E01.htm