Is Zeranol Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Zeranol is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (hormones).
CAS 26538-44-3.
Other names: Ralgro
Is Zeranol banned in the EU?
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | beef |
| CAS number | 26538-44-3 |
What is Zeranol?
Zeranol is a non-steroidal estrogenic growth implant used in US beef cattle.
Why is Zeranol used in food?
Producers use it to increase weight gain, milk output or feed efficiency.
Is Zeranol dangerous? Documented risks
Banned in the EU since 1989 as a hormonal growth promoter with endocrine activity.
Common US products containing Zeranol
- beef
How to avoid Zeranol: safer alternatives
Choose organic, grass-fed or 'no added hormones' certified meat and dairy, or EU-imported products. BannedPantry flags conventional animal products linked to banned hormones.
Frequently asked questions about Zeranol
Is Zeranol banned in the EU?
Yes — Zeranol is banned in the European Union, while it remains allowed for use in the United States.
Is Zeranol allowed in the US?
Zeranol is allowed in the United States. US regulators have not imposed the same restrictions that apply across the EU.
Why is Zeranol a concern?
Independent reviews flag Zeranol for documented health or environmental risks, which is why EU regulators acted while the US has not.
How do I avoid Zeranol?
Choose certified-organic or EU-imported products, check labels, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag Zeranol instantly.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Zeranol or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related hormones
Avoiding banned food additives? Check your beauty shelf, too.
Sources
- Banned ingredients in other countries — Food Revolution Network
- EFSA food additives — EFSA
- FDA Food Additives — U.S. FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.