Effect of beta-adrenergic agonists in animal production and their mode of action

Abstract

Beta-adrenergic agonists cause a shift in carcass composition of poultry, pigs, cattle and sheep. Fat content is dramatically reduced in favour of a higher percentage of muscle. Carcass yield is usually enhanced and is accompanied by muscle hypertrophy. There is a tendency for an improved growth rate and feed conversion in poultry and ruminants. In pigs, only feed conversion was positively affected.