The use of steroids and hormones are popular in sports but sometimes these substances are being used in livestock to make them bigger and stronger. In fact, there are some anabolic steroids which are primarily used in race horses and were later found out that it could also benefit bodybuilders and sports enthusiasts. Just like in sports, the use of anabolic steroids in horse racing is already banned in most countries like the US. But what is alarming is the use of steroids and hormones by some livestock growers.

Although the use of these substances is already banned in most countries, speculations that the practice still exist wouldn’t vanish. The Australian government for example, bans the use of steroids and hormones on livestock including chickens for several decades already. Producers are also committed to follow safety standards and assure the public that their products are free of any performance or quality enhancing substances.

However, a recent research conducted by one of the biggest producer of chicken in the country revealed that many Australians still believe that their favorite chicken meat are still injected with hormones and steroids. According to Steggles, more than 75% of Australians are claiming that the locally produced chickens contain hormones and steroids. Steggles group Managing Director, John Camilleri told the AusFoodNews.com.au that they assure all Australians that there are absolutely no hormones or steroids added to any of their chickens. “This is a fundamental commitment to our consumers,” he said.

Another misconception of consumers is the use of cages in chicken meat farming industry. “Cages are not used in our chicken meat farming operations across Australia. Steggles chickens are free to roam in custom-built, well-ventilated barns with constant access to food and water. Technical staffs are also engaged to specifically monitor and audit the welfare of our chickens,” the director said.

They have launched a public education campaign including TV ads to counter these perceptions. While it is a fact that the size of chicken produced in the country have become bigger as compared to previous years, the manufacturer argued that the changes was through the improvements in poultry breeding and farming practices. They have employed systematic and monitored feeding with the help of expert nutritionists. “It is important consumers are fully aware of the facts about chicken farming and that Australian families can take great comfort in knowing that chickens in Australia are produced in accordance with the regulations and standards set by the statutory authorities and the industry,” Camilleri said.

The chicken farming industry in Australia knows that proper education of consumers will help the industry flourish. The Australian Chicken Meat Federation said that there is a dramatic increase in chicken consumption for the past 20 years. 1 in 3 Australians eat chicken at least three times a week surpassing the consumption of beef.

It is good that these manufacturers are concerned on the welfare of their consumers. The use of steroids and hormones to bulk up the weight of their livestock to gain more profit should not be allowed by any government. If professional athletes are sanctioned for taking steroids and growth hormones, sanctions should also be given to unscrupulous businessmen who still inject their products with these weight and muscle enhancing substances.

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