Explaining Hormone and Implant Practices

Hormone implants are one of the most misunderstood topics in beef production. Producers can help by explaining what they actually use rather than relying on emotionally loaded labels.

Growth-promoting implants are approved tools in Canada

Health Canada authorizes hormonal growth promoters for use in beef cattle when products are used according to approved conditions.

Producers who use implants should not feel that transparency requires apologizing for an approved production practice. Explain what is used, when it is used and why it is part of your management system.

If you do not use implants, describe that accurately

Canadian labelling guidance recognizes claims concerning animals raised without the use of added hormones when the applicable criteria are met.

The phrase “hormone free” is not an appropriate description because hormones occur naturally in animals and meat.

Don’t combine unrelated claims

No added hormones does not automatically mean antibiotic-free, organic, grass-finished or regenerative. Each practice should be described separately.

Mixed production systems need extra clarity

If cattle sold through one market receive implants while cattle retained for your farm-direct program do not, explain that distinction. Do not apply one claim to the entire operation if it only applies to a specific group.

Let the customer decide what matters

PureBeef’s role is not to tell producers which system to use or consumers which system to buy. Accurate information allows both sides to have a more useful conversation.