What are Growth Hormones in Food?

There are several benefits to producers for using growth hormones in food. The main benefit to producers include increased production. On top of that it improves meat quality, food efficiency and reduces cost. For this reason, the cost of milk, meat and meat products are reduced for consumers as well. 

Some of the more popular growth hormones used in our foods include rBGH, or Posilac, Oestradiol, Progesterone, Testosterone, Zeranol, Trenbolone, and Melengestrol. The latter six are commonly referred to as hormone growth promotants (HGPs). These hormones are typically used to treat cows to increase meat and milk production.

rBGH is injected into lactating cows. It increases milk production by increasing the amount of milk produced as well as the lactation period.

Hormone growth promotants are either injected or implanted into cattle, or added to their feed. In the US, it is against the law to inject or implant hormones into calves, but it can be added at other levels of maturity. The hormones aid with nutrient absorption, which leads to bigger growth. It also leads to leaner cows with less fat. Consumers desire leaner meats.

Even though there are benefits to using growth hormones in our food, there are still some drawbacks. The growth hormones go into manure and reach our drinking water and crops. Some people argue that these lead to health problems in humans. Animal activists also believe giving animals these hormones is animal cruelty.