DETERMINATION OF SOME ANABOLIC HORMONE RESIDUES IN CATTLE MEAT CONSUMPTION IN VAN, TURKEY

The aim of this study was to determine some anabolic hormone residues (zeranol, trenbolone, DES, and testosterone) in cattle meat offered in the markets of the Van province. Cattle meat samples used in the study were collected from supermarkets, butchers, and slaughterhouses in Van Province between September 2013 and September 2014. A total of 80 samples consisting of approximately 50-150 g fat-free portions of cattle meat were collected and transported to the laboratory in the shortest time possible, after they were stored at -20? C until the analysis. Residual amounts of zeranol, trenbolone, DES and testosterone in the samples were determined by competitive enzyme immunoassay (ELISA) technique. Preparative kits (RIDESCREEN? Test Kits, R-Biopharm AG, Darmstadt, Germany) were used for the extraction and residue detection procedures, as recommended by the manufacturer company. Of all the samples in the study, the number of positive samples corresponding to each of the inspected residues were as follows: 37 (46.25%) trenbolone, 34 (42.5%) zeranol, 22 (27.5%) testosterone, and 11 (13.75%) DES. The highest residual values were determined as 230.7 ng/kg for the trenbolone in August, 1810.0 ng/kg for zeranol in September, 2004.49 ng/kg for testosterone in October, and 171.83 ng/kg for DES in November. In this study, trenbolone, zeranol, testosterone and DES residues were detected in the cattle meat offered in Van province markets. Residue quantities determined in cattle meat samples do not exceed acceptable residue limits. However, prohibited except for cases of anabolic veterinary treatment applications. The results obtained in this study show that different anabolic materials are being used for increased meat production, even though they are forbidden. For this reason, effective monitoring and inspections must be carried out at all stages from production to consumption with regard to the use of anabolic agents in livestock. It is important to remember that ELISA provides good results and rapid screening, but incorrect results may be obtained due to cross reactions.