Beta agonist found in permitted growth hormone in Malaysia

The banned beta-agonist substance in Malaysia found in pigs has found its way through a permitted growth hormone, ractopamine.

Malaysian Health Minister Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said five of the 15 pig farmers found to have been using beta agonist last year unknowingly administered their livestock with an allowed drug, which contained the banned substance.

Lai said at the request of the Federation of Livestock Farmers of Malaysia, the ministry is considering banning the drug as it contains Beta Agonist.

He said the ministry's Pharmaceutical Services Department would be monitoring all medication given to pigs to ensure there were no illegal substances present.

He warned pig farmers not to use beta-agonist, a compound to promote leanness and growth, as it can cause cancer if contained in large amounts.

Malaysia's Veterinary Services Department (VSD) has since quarantined 10 pig farms following the discovery of Beta Agonist in pig feeds.