Effects of growth hormones in food

Thesis Statement

Growth hormones given to animals such as cattle, in order to make them gain weight faster, creating a meat product for consumers at a faster pace. Although a variety of hormones produced by our bodies and are essential for normal development of healthy tissue, synthetic steroid hormones used as pharmaceuticals, it was found to affect cancer risk. There is another school of thought that advocates the use of growth hormones is environmentally friendly and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Introduction

Growth hormones and increase milk production in animals. While dairy and meat industry depends on the use of growth hormones to enhance productivity and profits, these hormones may hold negative implications for human health.

Growth hormones in food

Meat and dairy products are the basis of many Western diets. In fact, the popular perception is that the piece of meat and two glasses of milk every day will ensure good bone and muscle mass(Nina 331). Nevertheless, many people do not know about what actually happens in the boxes of milk they get from the local supermarket or cuts of beef they grill on the barbecue.

Growth hormone for beef production

Impact of growth hormones in beef could be putting Americans at risk of infertility. A recent study showed that women who regularly ate beef was much more likely to give birth to a boy, growing up, have a lower than normal sperm.

Growth hormones in food and environment

Hormone residues in cow manure enters the ecosystem(Bettelheim Brown 864). Manure from poultry farms to soil in the area and surface water and groundwater in this area. In addition to effects on men and women, and reproductive capacity of fish and aquatic ecosystems, there are concerns about traces of growth hormones finding their way to the food we eat, although there are no conclusive studies to support this.

Why would cattle owners want to use growth hormones?

Cattle owners use of growth hormones, because it increases their profitability. Farmers today want to produce more cattle in a shorter period. The farmer may only have about 14 months to get a calf from a small size, say 80 pounds for sale size (about 1200 pounds). Growth hormones help the cattle put on weight to get them ready for slaughter in record time and also reduce the amount of fat in meat.

Results in approximately 12 per cent increase in the amount of milk the U.S. Nevertheless, he argued that the U.S. does not need higher milk production. He said that since the l950s, dairies America has consistently produced more milk than the country can consume, to buy surplus every year the federal government to prevent a sharp drop in prices since.



What can I do?

There are many small family farmers who do not use artificial hormones to their animals. Having bought the milk and meat from local, sustainable farms, you are supporting a system that ensures the health and welfare of animals, but also protects you and your family from hormone risks associated with health.

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