After a week of inspections, authorities in Dong Nai discovered seven pig farms using the banned substance salbutamol to “fatten” pigs.
Photo: Dong Nai authorities inspect a pig farm in the area – Photo: A.B.
On August 5, the Dong Nai City Sub-Department of Livestock Production and Fisheries reported that seven pig farms had been found using the banned substance salbutamol to promote weight gain (fattening).
From July 28 to August 4, the agency inspected pig collection and fattening facilities across the area. The inspection found that seven facilities in Tri An Ward, Dau Giay Ward, and Hung Thinh Commune tested positive for salbutamol — a beta-agonist banned in livestock production because of its ability to promote lean meat growth.
Authorities temporarily detained more than 4,100 pigs at these facilities and collected urine samples for quantitative analysis to determine the levels of salbutamol and clenbuterol.
Following the analysis results, the authorities will take strict action against any violations.
The Dong Nai City Sub-Department of Livestock Production and Fisheries said that pig collection and “fattening” are mainly carried out by traders. They purchase large pigs weighing 70–100 kg and bring them to farms, where the pigs are given substances to promote rapid weight gain over a short period before being sold on the market.
During this period, pigs gain weight rapidly but tend to accumulate more fat, making them less visually appealing. Therefore, the operators use banned substances to promote lean meat development, allowing them to sell the pigs at higher prices.
According to the sub-department, there are thousands of pig farms in the area, but most practice conventional pig farming, with only a small number operating “fattening” facilities. To date, authorities have not detected the use of banned substances at any conventional pig farms.
Dong Nai authorities collect samples to test for banned substances at a pig farm in the area. – Photo: A.B
In the coming period, the sub-department will coordinate with local authorities in communes and wards to expand inspections and verify the use of banned substances in livestock production, particularly at pig collection and “fattening” facilities.
The agricultural sector will also advise the Dong Nai City People’s Committee to develop and issue a plan for inspecting banned substances in livestock production, identifying specific areas and high-risk facilities for targeted inspections and strict handling of violations.
In addition, animal quarantine procedures for animals and animal products transported out of the city will be strictly enforced. Slaughtering activities will also be closely monitored to ensure that animals brought for slaughter have clear origins and have undergone quarantine in accordance with regulations.
Cases showing signs of criminal activity, or involving the illegal purchase, sale, transportation, possession, or supply of banned substances, will be promptly transferred to investigative authorities for further action.