Pictures courtesy of Naewna.

 

The Department of Livestock Development has launched a nationwide inspection drive to detect the illegal use of beta-agonist growth stimulants, commonly known as “red meat enhancers,” in order to safeguard public health and strengthen confidence among consumers and international trade partners.

 

Dr Somchuan Ratanamangkalanon, Director-General of the department, said special task forces have been deployed to inspect meat distribution centres across the country under the policy of creating a “Red Meat Enhancer-Free Thailand.”

 

In one of the latest operations, Dr Yuttana Sophie, Director of the Bureau of Livestock Standards and Certification, led an inspection team at the meat market in Talad Thai, Pathum Thani, supported by regional livestock offices, excise officers, central investigation police and provincial public health officials. No contaminated meat was found during the checks, but authorities confirmed that inspections would continue nationwide.

 

The banned substances include Salbutamol and Ractopamine, both beta-agonists that stimulate muscle growth and reduce fat, making meat appear leaner and redder. While these additives are sought after in some markets, residue in food products poses serious health risks such as heart palpitations, muscle tremors, headaches, nausea and high blood pressure. Pregnant women and heart patients are considered especially vulnerable.

 

Under Thai law, the use of beta-agonists in livestock is strictly prohibited. Violators face penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment or fines of up to THB 60,000 under the Animal Feed Quality Control Act (2015), as well as further penalties under the Food Act (1979), which allows for fines up to THB 50,000 for contaminated products.

 

The Livestock Department has urged both sellers and consumers to remain vigilant. Anyone with information about the illegal use of red meat enhancers can call the department’s hotline or report via the DLD 4.0 application, available 24 hours a day.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-09-05

 

 

 

Those damned drugs are based strictly on greed, and the sh!t gets passed down into the kids who eat them. I've been teaching grade school for 15 years, have worked with youth most of my life, and the difference is startling. Kids today are hitting puberty at a younger age and I attribute that completely to the hormones pumped into everything they consume. It's not healthy and I suspect the human race will pay for it in the long run.