Tag: Animal hormones

According to a review, the use of hormones to increase meat and milk production in cattle raises concerns about human health effects. In this guide, we'll delve into the scientific debate surrounding the question: how do growth hormones in animals affect humans? We'll analyze the potential risks and the regulatory landscape designed to ensure food safety.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), federal regulations have prohibited the use of hormones in raising poultry and pork since the 1950s. For these meats, the label "no added hormones" is a redundant marketing tactic and must be followed by a disclaimer. However, for beef, this label signifies that a specific producer has chosen not to use growth-promoting hormones, an optional but permitted practice.

According to a 2019 review, a significant portion of exogenous hormones in Western diets comes from animal products, particularly milk and dairy. While all living organisms produce hormones naturally, the specific types and levels of what kind of hormones are in food vary depending on whether the product is plant-based or animal-based, and how it was produced.

It's a common misconception that some foods are completely free of hormones, but in reality, all plants and animals naturally produce them. The more relevant question is *what food does not have hormones* added for growth or production, and the answer is rooted in understanding different food labeling.

According to nutrition experts, all foods that were once living contain hormones, including both plants and animals. This surprising fact debunks the common 'hormone-free' myth and prompts a deeper look into the different types of hormones present in our diet and their effects.