The figures were released by the Southern Agricultural Techniques Institute during a conference held in Hanoi on December 5. The research work of the institute shows the alarming situation of the use of growth hormones in Vietnam, which have been shown to cause cancer in humans.

According to La Van Kinh, Head of the institute, some 10 kinds of hormones are being used in husbandry. Clenbuterol and Salbutamol are the most commonly used.

In a programme kicked off recently, in which five samples of pork sold in HCM City were tested, growth hormones were found in concentrations 3-60 times higher than the allowed level.

According to Mr Kinh, in other countries, the hormones are put in the food for the pigs during the fattening period. However, in Vietnam, the hormones are put in all kinds of food for pigs.

Source: VietnamNet Bridge