Define Cattle Growth Hormones
Cattle growth hormones are substances injected into cattle for a desired response. Of the 32 million cattle slaughtered for beef in the US in 2005, almost two-thirds were treated with hormones. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Federal Drug Administration (FDA) have deemed the hormones safe, but there is growing concern that hormone residues in meat and milk might be harmful to human health.
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rBGH
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Recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) is a genetically engineered version of a natural bovine hormone that increases milk production in cows by up to 15 percent. Approved by the FDA in 1993, the hormone may have potential hazards, according to US General Accounting Office (GAO) and the Consumer's Union.
Research
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Six natural and synthetic growth hormones extensively used in dairy farms for commercial beef production pose considerable risks to human health, according to a European Union's Scientific Committee on Veterinary Measures Relating to Public Health.
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Most Used Hormones
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The most commonly used naturally occurring hormones are Oestradiol, Progesterone and Testosterone, and commonly used artificial hormones are Zeranol, Trenbolone, and Melengestrol.
Implications
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Questions about the safety of cattle growth hormones arise due to concerns about their possible health implications such as hormone imbalances, developmental problems, problems with the reproductive system, and increased risks for breast, prostate or colon cancer.
Environmental Effects
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Hormones from wastage (from cow excreta) in dairy farms can contaminate surface and groundwater. This can effect gender and reproductive capacities of fish.
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References
- Photo Credit cow image by Jill Grant from Fotolia.com
