Banning growth hormone implants for feeder cattle is not enough to get Canadian beef back into Europe.
The Alberta Beef Producers defeated a resolution to halt the use of implants, but the issue raised questions among delegates about the hormones that are used to put more weight on feeder cattle.
“The science of growth implants is still favourable. Until we have some significant guarantee that we could get into new markets, we should not ban them,” said Ryan Kasko of Coaldale, Alta.
Others argued a ban would deliver mixed messages to consumers who have been assured the hormone implants are safe for human consumption. However, hormone-free beef can fill a niche market among those preferring natural products.
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Veterinarian and beef producer delegate Kee Jim of Okotoks, Alta., said implant use is a personal choice.
“It would be very na•ve to think if we made it illegal to use the product in Canada, it would in any way, shape or form, increase our global market,” he said.
He said the added cost to finish an animal without implants would increase by $25-$75 per head.
However Joe Zink of Calgary, a beef and dairy producer, said he does not use hormones in his herds and believes drug companies have convinced producers the products are necessary.
