Dear Green American, A drug banned in over 160 countries is still being used in meat production in the U.S.—and it’s putting animals, farm workers, and consumers at risk. Ractopamine is a growth-promoting drug given to farmed animals like pigs, cows, and turkeys. It helps corporate meat producers boost profits by increasing animal weight, but it comes at a steep cost to animal welfare and human health. Take action now: Tell the FDA and Commissioner Makary to ban ractopamine in U.S. meat production. The FDA approved ractopamine based primarily on studies funded by the drugmaker itself. Since then, a growing body of evidence—including findings within the FDA’s own files—has linked the drug to: Increased animal suffering, including injuries and stress Human health issues like heart and respiratory problems Environmental harm from polluted runoff A competitive disadvantage for small, organic, and humane farms
Countries across the European Union, as well as China and Russia, have already banned or severely restricted ractopamine use. Yet here in the U.S., it’s estimated that 60–80% of pigs raised for food are still given this harmful drug. It’s time for the U.S. to catch up—and protect public health, animals, and the environment. Together, we can end this unsafe and unnecessary practice. |
