Hormones have been used since the mid-1950s to increase growth rates and feed conversion efficiency in livestock. But is there any scientific reasoning behind this?
The following provides exploratory insights into the use of hormones in farming practices and production, with research from Weiert Velle's study "Hormones in Animal Production" serving as the foundation.
Hormonally active substances - uses and applications
Hormone-active substances are utilized in animal production to boost growth, improve feed efficiency, and enhance meat quality. These hormones can be classified into two types: natural hormones including oestradiol 17-E, testosterone, and progesterone and synthetic hormones such as trenbolone acetate and zeranol).
Notable effects are recorded in W. Velle's study. Hormone treatments can significantly enhance growth rates, nitrogen retention, and feed conversion efficiency in livestock in cattle and swine. The results in sheep however are less clear and poultry generally exhibit changes in lipid deposition rather than growth rates. Animal hormones exert their effects by binding to specific receptors on or inside target cells, which triggers a cascade of biochemical reactions. The mechanisms of action depend on the type of hormone.
DES (Diethylstilbestrol) and Hexoestrol are noted to have been used extensively throughout history, in the USA and UK. They now however are currently restricted due to health risks, including potential carcinogenic effects and reproductive harm.
Hormone-active substances are utilized in animal production to boost growth, improve feed efficiency, and enhance meat quality. These hormones can be classified into two types: natural hormones including oestradiol 17-E, testosterone, and progesterone and synthetic hormones such as trenbolone acetate and zeranol).
Notable effects are recorded in W. Velle's study. Hormone treatments can significantly enhance growth rates, nitrogen retention, and feed conversion efficiency in livestock in cattle and swine. The results in sheep however are less clear and poultry generally exhibit changes in lipid deposition rather than growth rates. Animal hormones exert their effects by binding to specific receptors on or inside target cells, which triggers a cascade of biochemical reactions. The mechanisms of action depend on the type of hormone.
DES (Diethylstilbestrol) and Hexoestrol are noted to have been used extensively throughout history, in the USA and UK. They now however are currently restricted due to health risks, including potential carcinogenic effects and reproductive harm.
"Animals are such agreeable friends – they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms." – George Eliot
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Concentrations - appearing in edible parts/tissues
Hormone levels in animals can vary greatly based on their physiological state. Hormones exert their effects by binding to receptors on specific target tissues, and the concentration of a hormone in these tissues plays a crucial role in regulating effects.
When evaluating the health risks of hormone use in animal production, it's important to account for the natural presence of hormones and their metabolites in animal tissues and fluids. Animals may also receive antibiotics or other veterinary drugs for disease prevention or growth promotion. Concerns about the potential health risks associated with hormone-treated meat have prompted many consumers to seek hormone-free or organic alternatives.
When evaluating the health risks of hormone use in animal production, it's important to account for the natural presence of hormones and their metabolites in animal tissues and fluids. Animals may also receive antibiotics or other veterinary drugs for disease prevention or growth promotion. Concerns about the potential health risks associated with hormone-treated meat have prompted many consumers to seek hormone-free or organic alternatives.
Alternative ideas - lab-grown, regulatory and disease control
After performing their physiological functions, hormones are metabolized and eliminated from the body. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives continuously evaluate the safety of these hormones in food production. Studies have shown that naturally occurring hormones in foods are generally safe for human consumption within typical serving sizes.
After performing their physiological functions, hormones are metabolized and eliminated from the body. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives continuously evaluate the safety of these hormones in food production. Studies have shown that naturally occurring hormones in foods are generally safe for human consumption within typical serving sizes.
According to W. Velle's study, a 10% increase in hormonally-induced growth rates for meat production can have a substantial economic impact, for human consumption. The improved feed conversion efficiency (FCE) that often accompanies this growth further boosts economic advantages, allowing for more efficient production of edible protein per unit of energy. This is particularly important in a world dealing with protein shortages!
So... Healthier Animals, Healthier You?
While hormone use in animal production might seem marginal at first, it's crucial globally, as multiple methods must be balanced for increased productivity and consumer safety. The debate over hormone use in animal production is complex. Critics highlight potential health risks for animals, including stress and reproductive issues, as well as environmental concerns like hormone residues affecting water systems and wildlife. Proponents argue that, when used responsibly, hormones can enhance livestock efficiency and health. With advancements like recombinant DNA technology enabling large-scale hormone production, there's potential for more efficient and residue-free solutions in the future!
While hormone use in animal production might seem marginal at first, it's crucial globally, as multiple methods must be balanced for increased productivity and consumer safety. The debate over hormone use in animal production is complex. Critics highlight potential health risks for animals, including stress and reproductive issues, as well as environmental concerns like hormone residues affecting water systems and wildlife. Proponents argue that, when used responsibly, hormones can enhance livestock efficiency and health. With advancements like recombinant DNA technology enabling large-scale hormone production, there's potential for more efficient and residue-free solutions in the future!
Resources
(Paper) Naturally occurring hormones in foods and potential health effects
Hormones and hormone-like substances, such as phytoestrogens, are components in food that can either be produced naturally by the food source or arise as a result of agricultural practices.
(Paper) The use of hormones in animal production
Investigates the role of hormones in enhancing the productivity and health of livestock. It provides an overview on how natural and synthetic hormones are used to regulate growth, reproduction, and milk production in animals like cattle.
(Paper) Comparative Endocrinology: Past, Present, and Future
The article traces the evolution of comparative endocrinology, highlighting its origins and key milestones, such as the first international symposium on comparative endocrinology which took place in 1954. It discusses the traditional focus on the evolution of endocrine systems, regulation and field developments.
Last updated: 29/10/2024
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5 comments:
This was a good train read. Keep it up.
I'm laughing because they say certain perfumes have pheromones. I guess it's not as far-fetched as I thought. :)
I am not sure that any of the alterations that they are doing to livestock and other things too like crops, veggies, food supply are a good thing. I know we need to ensure that there is enough food for the planet but I think we need to do it as naturally, sustainably and organically as possible.
I have been a vegetarian since I was a young child, and it is always good to hear about the health reasons behind not eating meat. There are so many things in our food products to have to look out for.
Learning about hormone-free options and their benefits is so important for making healthier lifestyle choices 🙂. Great post 👌🏻
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