Paylean

Picture this, we’re on the set of the Ellen DeGeneres show and she is interviewing me! The topic: the safety of pork after the animal is shown competitively.   Her first question : What feed additives and medications can be harmful to me, the consumer? “Well Ellen, when used properly, virtually every medication or additive that is made for hogs and FDA approved is perfectly safe for consumption.   The issue lies in the phrase “made for hogs”. A great majority of the drugs we use are perfectly safe because they are made for use on hogs and are FDA approved such as Atguard for worms and Terramycin for respiratory problems.   However, there are a number of drugs that are used that are not   made for hogs.   One of the most commonly misused   medications is Banamine, used for joint issues. It has to be prescribed by a vet which is where the misuse comes in because most people keep the bottle at their home and do not consult with a veterinarian. Good record keeping is one of the main ways to help minimize issues like this. At my house, we keep a calendar of all the medicines we gave to what animal. We also mark the date in which the withdraw period comes. The National Western does a great job of trying to prevent mishaps like this by requiring each exhibitor to write down what medications have been administered to their animal and the date.   Our state fair also does this.  
As far as additives are concerned, nearly all used are perfectly appropriate and safe for use on swine.   Additives are excellent in aiding the exhibitors who need to improve their projects.   Fat additives for example, not only help improve the looks of the animal, but also helps to fill in areas around the ribs and can smooth over the ham loin junction which could potentially help to tenderize the meat. The most controversial of the additives on the market today is Paylean.   Paylean increases the amount of   quality meat in high value cuts and improves production efficiency.   It is supposed to be fed in 9... [continues]

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