Methods for controlling the application of anabolics in farm animals

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Veterinary Pharmacology

Background:

• Anabolic agents, particularly estrogens, are potent growth promoters in livestock.
• The use of anabolic agents in food-producing animals is prohibited in many countries due to safety concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss methods for detecting estrogen administration in fattening animals.
• To evaluate the feasibility and limitations of controlling anabolic agent use, especially when permitted.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of histological, biological, chemical, and immunological detection methods.
• Evaluation of control strategies in the context of both prohibition and permitted use of anabolic agents.

Main Results:

• Estrogens have the most significant growth-promoting effect among anabolic agents.
• Detection methods are categorized into histological, biological, chemical, and immunological approaches.
• Prohibiting anabolic agents simplifies control compared to permitting specific products.

Conclusions:

• Effective control of estrogen administration is challenging when their use is permitted.
• Current detection methods may not be sufficient for adequate oversight in scenarios allowing specific anabolic agent use.