At least 706,530 kilograms (more than 1.5 million pounds) of arsenic-containing drugs were sold for use in animal products in 2010, according to analysis of FDA documents by the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future. Arsenic-based drugs are fed to animals to control intestinal parasites, promote animal growth, and to make the meat products look more appealing to consumers. Consumption of arsenic from animals is toxic to human health, and arsenic from animals' waste is toxic to the environment.

Smith, T. FDA can't keep a secret -- agency accidentally reveals arsenical drug sales. Center for a Livable Future. Available at: http://www.livablefutureblog.com/2012/10/fda-can’t-keep-a-secret—agency-accidently-reveals-arsenical-drug-sales-2. Accessed October 29, 2012.

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