Beef implants

Veterinarians, who are some of the best people on earth, need to take responsibility for the quality of beef in the U.S. Our beef often contains hormones that stimulate growth. While this is good for the producer who makes more because each animal is larger, these hormones, especially estrogens, are linked to cancer.

Large animal veterinarians help farmers make a living by advising them on the use of growth stimulants. Many veterinarians encourage the use of growth implants, which can be used in calves about 6 weeks old. Implants are inserted in the cow’s ear and so that cattle gain 10-15% more weight on less feed. Implants can be inserted throughout the animal’s life, and are most commonly inserted when cattle reach the feed yard because producers want the most growth the last few months of the animal’s life. There is no wthdrawal time for implants, which means implants can be inserted into a cow’s ear a week or less before slaughter.

The FDA, cattle farmers, and veterinarians tell the public that growth-promoting estrogens and androgen-containing implants are safe. The US Food and Drug Administration approves implants. If you have doubts about the wisdom of eating this meat given the strong evidence suggesting estrogens stimulate cancer, then apply this same wisdom to the meat you feed your pets. Purchase pet food that uses free-range beef or lamb raised without steroids or hormones.