Nehal Hossain Nafis: As the festival of Eid al-Adha approaches, many Muslims prepare for the ritual of Qurbani, where animals such as cattle, goats, and sheep are sacrificed to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son. While this practice holds deep religious significance, it is crucial to ensure that the animals chosen for sacrifice are healthy and free from any harmful substances.The Issue of Artificial Fattening.
In an effort to fetch higher prices, some unscrupulous farmers sometimes use banned substances to artificially fatten cattle, such as steroids (Decason, Oradexon, Prednisolone) and hormones (Trenbolone, Progestin, Testosterone). These methods pose health risks to consumers and create unfair market practices. However, many farmers now use natural and scientific methods to raise healthy cattle thanks to increased awareness and training programs. Here are 12 tips to help you identify cattle that have been treated with these harmful substances:
1.Behavior: Naturally healthy cattle are active and responsive to their environment. Cattle treated with steroids may appear lethargic, less reactive, and uncomfortable.
2.Urination Frequency: Steroid-treated cattle may urinate less frequently, about once or twice a day, compared to naturally raised cattle.
3.Appetite: Steroid-treated cattle often show less interest in food. Healthy cattle eagerly eat when presented with food.
4.Breathing: Cattle treated with artificial substances may have rapid, labored breathing and tire quickly after minimal activity.
5.Rib Bones: The rib bones of steroid-treated cattle are often not visible, and these cattle cannot tolerate much sunlight.
6.Thigh Muscle: Naturally healthy cattle have firm thigh muscles. Steroid-treated cattle have softer thigh muscles due to water retention in the muscle tissue.
7. Press Test: Pressing the skin of steroid-treated cattle may leave an indentation that takes longer to return to normal, indicating water retention.
8.Saliva or Foam: Excessive saliva or foam around the mouth in cooler weather can indicate artificial fattening. Opt for cattle with less saliva or foam.
9.Movement: Cattle treated with artificial substances may have difficulty walking and prefer to remain seated.
10. Nose Condition: Healthy cattle have moist noses, while sick cattle often have dry noses.
11. Swollen Legs and Face: Look for swelling in the legs and face, and overall lethargy, which are signs of artificially fattened cattle.
12. Body Temperature: Check the cattle's temperature; normal is 100-101°F. Elevated temperature could indicate illness, though it can also result from travel stress.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing cattle, ensuring both the health of the animal and the safety of the meat.This Eid al-Adha, make a conscious effort to select healthy cattle for Qurbani, and spread awareness within your community. Together, we can ensure that this sacred tradition is carried out with the highest standards of care and responsibility
Writer is an Assistant Manager (CF) at Bengal Meat Processing Industries Ltd.
