BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Agriculture Minister, Attakorn Sirilattayakorn, has reaffirmed his firm stance against the use of red meat accelerators in livestock products, emphasizing that public health must remain the top priority. He also expressed support for Thailand’s trade negotiation team with the United States, hoping for outcomes that benefit the country while considering all dimensions of impact.
The minister explained that over the past 2–3 weeks, he received questions from parliament members and concerns from the public about the use of red meat accelerators in both pork and beef. Studies indicate that several chemical accelerators pose health risks, including heart complications, particularly for children and pregnant women.
Attakorn noted that he and his family have long opposed the use of such substances. His father, Itthee Sirilattayakorn, previously served as Deputy Agriculture Minister overseeing the Department of Livestock Development, while former Agriculture Minister Thammanat Prompao also pushed campaigns to eradicate red meat accelerators in Thailand. Enforcement measures included monitoring and prosecuting illegal use under the “End Red Meat Accelerators in Thailand” initiative.
“Out of concern for the health of all Thai citizens, I have never supported the authorization of red meat accelerators,” the minister said, stressing that these chemicals directly endanger consumers.
When asked whether his position could conflict with Thailand’s ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S., Attakorn assured that he fully supports the negotiation team while maintaining the ministry’s health and safety priorities. He expressed confidence that the team will consider all aspects — including safety, economy, and social impact — to achieve the best results for Thailand. (TNA)
