β-agonists (clenbuterol, salbutamol and terbutaline) are adrenergic drugs, which were originally
developed for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, especially asthma. Additionally,
these drugs benefit the meat-producing industry by enhancing muscle accretion and diminishing muscle
protein breakdown. Therefore, β-agonist drugs have been used as growth promoters in livestock. However,
the misuse of β-agonist drugs as growth promoters have been banned because they cause sickness and heart
complications to humans. Analysis of β-agonist residues in meat is, therefore, essential for consumer
protection.