Malaysia probes pig ‘growth enhancer’ usage
The Malaysian Health Ministry are to investigate claims that pig farmers are using an unapproved growth enhancer.
Although no reports have been received, Minister, Datuk Liow Tiong stressed that the matter will be probed, saying that the action of these pig farmers could affect the whole pig farming industry, including the likelihood of another boycott of pork by consumer.
Chinese imports
Veterinarian, Datuk Dr Donald Lee Chong Meng, said it is worrying that 90% of the ractopamine currently used by pig farmers in Malaysia is imported from China. The cabinet approved the use of ractopamine imported from the United States three years ago as it meets international production standards and is safe to use.
Veterinarian, Datuk Dr Donald Lee Chong Meng, said it is worrying that 90% of the ractopamine currently used by pig farmers in Malaysia is imported from China. The cabinet approved the use of ractopamine imported from the United States three years ago as it meets international production standards and is safe to use.
“The ractopamine produced in China, which is three times cheaper, has not been registered with the ministry and we have reasons to doubt its production process and standard, especially after the melamine scandal,” he said.
He suggested the government make it mandatory for companies importing ractopamine from China to register their drug with the government to ensure the quality and safety of the drug.
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