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Is the use of hormones allowed? |
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Written by Administrator
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Saturday, 26 January 2008 |
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Hormones occur naturally in humans and animals. They are produced by glands in the body and carried to particular organs and tissues to produce specific responses – to stimulate development, for example. Hormones can also be made synthetically.
Hormones can be used as veterinary medicines to treat sick animals. They are given in low doses and are carefully controlled to ensure that any remaining residues will not affect the health of consumers. Some hormones can also increase the growth of food-producing animals. The use of hormones for growth promotion is banned in the EU. This includes a ban on steroids for bulking up animals. Other countries, notably the US, continue to use hormones for growth promotion. Meat from animals that have been treated with hormones for growth promotion cannot be imported into the EU. -food.gov.uk- |