Physiological quantities of naturally occurring steroid hormones (androgens and progestogens), precursors and metabolites in beef of differing sexual origin

 The present investigation gives a comprehensive overview of the naturally occurring steroid hormones, their precursors and metabolites in the food-stuff beef. Thus, comparison values have been established using modern analytical techniques for the evaluation of the alimentary administration of hormones via beef and for the evaluation of detected residues. The utilization of hormone patterns in meat samples enables the sexual origin of the meat to be determined. Hormone patterns are less influenced by individual variations than are individual steroids. Hence the validity of such statements of origin is greater in comparison to those based on the examination of individual steroids. The progesterone/pregnenolone quotient allows, when used in combination with measurement of the androgens testosterone, 5α-dihydrotestosterone and the metabolite epitestosterone, a clear differentiation between beef originating from male and from female cattle.