How many days before slaughter must cattle be pulled off hormones?

Cattle must be pulled off hormones at least 21 days before slaughter to ensure that any residual hormone levels in the animals are diminished to acceptable limits by the time they are processed for meat. This regulation is crucial for both consumer safety and compliance with food safety standards.

The 21-day withdrawal period allows ample time for the cattle's bodies to metabolize and eliminate hormones, minimizing the risk of hormone residues in the meat that could potentially impact human health. This practice is part of the broader regulatory framework aimed at promoting food safety and animal welfare and is based on scientific studies regarding the metabolism of growth hormones in livestock.

The interval is longer than other options because it ensures thorough clearance, reflecting a cautious approach to food safety.