Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2026
131. Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan asked the Minister for Health the concerns held by her Department over the use of oestradiol in food production; the risks it poses to public health; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17570/26]
View answerOestradiol is a naturally occurring hormone found in many species, including humans and most food-producing animals. It plays an important role in regulating reproductive functions, particularly in females. As a result, foods derived from animals, especially adult females, such as meat, milk, or eggs may naturally contain small amounts of oestradiol.
In addition to these natural sources, synthetic oestradiol is manufactured as a pharmaceutical product for use in animals. EU legislation first prohibited the use of oestradiol for growth promotion in 1981 as a precautionary measure. This restriction was subsequently confirmed and strengthened through a series of EU Directives. Following scientific assessments, the EU rules were further tightened and since 2008, all use of oestradiol in food-producing animals has been completely prohibited. Ireland implements and enforces these rules, as do all other EU Member States. These rules apply to all food sold in the EU, including imported food products.
The prohibition of oestradiol is based on EU scientific risk assessments. In opinions published in 1999, 2000, and 2002, the Scientific Committee on Veterinary Measures relating to Public Health (SCVPH) one of the precursors to EFSA, concluded that the risks associated with all assessed hormones, including oestradiol could not be quantified. This meant that no acceptable daily intake could be established.
However, it is important to note that this classification relates primarily to long-term biological activity. The concern arises from ongoing or repeated exposure, where continuous hormonal stimulation may alter gene expression, encourage cell proliferation, and potentially lead to mutations. A single or isolated ingestion of meat containing oestradiol residues is very unlikely to cause measurable or immediate harm to health. The EU rules on oestradiol aim to prevent repeat exposure, not because a single exposure/meal poses a significant danger, but because long-term safety cannot be guaranteed if products with oestradiol are entering the food chain.
All food placed on the EU market must be produced without any non-natural administration of oestradiol. Ireland’s Border Control Posts, operated by the HSE’s National Environmental Health Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, function effectively to control imports of food from third countries. Furthermore, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI), which has overall responsibility for the enforcement of food law, carries out inspections and audits through its official agencies to ensure compliance with food safety legislation, thus minimising risk to public health. Where non-compliances are identified, appropriate enforcement and corrective actions are taken in accordance with food law.
