September 27, 2010

Tasmania toughens hormone-free beef rules

To strengthen the state's HGP-free claim, the Tasmanian cattle industry in Australia is looking at tightening rules to stop hormone treated cattle slipping into Tasmania unannounced.

The Farmers and Graziers Association meat council is calling for tougher state regulations to identify imported cattle with growth hormone implants.

Meat processor Greenhams welcomed the decision as it would guarantee integrity in its brands.

The company is expanding with a new hormone-free Pure South brand, which is sourcing stock from Victoria and Tasmania.

"We're selling the beef that it's all hormone free," said Manager Peter Greenham. "If farmers are buying mixed cattle from Victoria that have got hormones, we won't be accepting those cattle," he added.