What “No Added Hormones” Means

“No added hormones” is a production claim. It generally communicates that
growth-promoting hormonal products were not added as part of raising the
animal. It does not mean that the animal or the beef contains no naturally
occurring hormones.

Animals naturally have hormones

Hormones are naturally present in animals and play essential roles in
growth, reproduction and normal biological function.

The word “added” matters

When a beef producer says cattle were raised without added hormones, the
important production question is whether hormonal growth promotants or
implants were administered to those cattle.

Do not confuse hormones with antibiotics

These are separate issues. A producer may raise cattle without added growth
hormones while still treating a sick animal with an antibiotic when
medically necessary.

Ask about the actual program

Marketing phrases are most useful when the producer can explain exactly what
they mean on that particular farm.