TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) -- Taiwan says two hypermarkets have removed 3,300 pounds (1,600 kilogram) of boneless U.S. beef because a banned growth drug was found in the meat.

Taiwan's Department of Health said residue of beta agonist was detected in the three shipments of beef ordered by Costco and local hypermarket chain RT-Mart. The statement issued Saturday said all the beef has been removed.

The drug, under the trade name Paylean, makes pigs and cows develop muscle tissue faster.

It is banned in Taiwan but allowed in several countries including the United States and South Korea.