Lack of banned hormone ‘reassuring’

The absence of banned hormonal growth promoters in Irish beef and other meat, as indicated in the results of tests carried out under the national residue monitoring plan, was described by the Department of Agriculture and Food yesterday as reassuring for consumers.

It said the results also reflect the fruits of rigorous enforcement by the department and the responsible approach being adopted by farmers.

The results were announced as Agriculture and Food Minister Joe Walsh made a Bord Bia promotional visit to the Somerfield Group of supermarkets in London.