[Absorption of diethylstilbestrol (DES) by plants. Dangers of using manure of animals treated with DES].

Abstract

Diethylstilboestrol, an anabolist used per os or in sub-cutaneous implants in a number of countries, but not in France, on animals of the bovine species, is absorbed by plants when spread on alfafa cultures. As this product is eliminated to a great extent through the fecal matter, its presence in fertilisers constitutes a danger to the environment, in view of its toxicity, whether direct or transmitted. This is a further reason for its use to be banned.