Detection of Estrogenic Substances in Alfalfa and Clover Hays Fed to Fattening Lambs

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Estrogenic activity was found in clover and alfalfa hays fed to fattening lambs. Also estrogenic activity was found in other alfalfa and clover hays. This activity was assayed against standard doses of stilbestrol by noting the stimulation in uterine weights of immature female mice. Other feedstuffs tested (one sample each) which failed to show estrogenic activity were: blue grass, brome grass, ladino clover, immature wheat plants, corn and wheat grains, and soybean oil meal. The potency of the clover and alfalfa hays varied from 0.8 to 2.7 micrograms of stilbestrol activity per pound of hay tested. The possible significance in feeding practice of these levels of estrogens in hays upon breeding performance, milk production, and rate of gain in fattening animals is discussed. Copyright © . .