The UK's risk rating status for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
(BSE) has been downgraded to negligible by the World
Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
In a major boost for the food and farm sector, more avenues will
now be open for trade with other countries as our improved risk
status for beef and bovine products is recognised.
The abattoir and meat processing industry will be able to take
advantage of changes to control measures, which will reduce
operational burden and release financial savings for the abattoir
and meat processing industry.
The UK's improved risk status is a reflection of the UK's global
reputation for having some of the highest standards in the world
for biosecurity .
BSE, occasionally known as mad cow disease, was a
considerable public health concern in the 1980s leading to
long-standing bans on British beef exports. The downgrading risk
status marks a major step forward, reflecting decades of rigorous
controls and opening the door to expanded trade and renewed
confidence in UK beef.
Farming Minister Zeichner said:
Today's announcement is a major step forward and will
deliver a real boost to our hard-working cattle farmers, who will
now have more avenues open for trading our excellent beef
products.
It is also a huge vote of confidence in this government's
commitment to rigorous animal health standards and biosecurity.
UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss
said:
WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a
significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong
biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers
and livestock keepers across the country who have all played
their part in managing the spread of this disease.
This is the latest example of the UK's global reputation as a
world leader in biosecurity and our new status will improve UK
trade for beef and bovine products and reduce the operational
burden and create financial savings for the abattoir and meat
processing industry.
Natasha , Deputy Director of Food Policy at
the Food Standards Agency said:
This good news reflects that our strict controls in place to
protect consumers such as controls on animal feed, and removal of
the parts of cattle most likely to carry BSE infectivity,
have helped make sure there is no food safety risk.
Although the meat industry will be now able to use more of the
carcass, consumers can be reassured that strict food safety
controls remain in place. Food Standards Agency Official
Veterinarians and Meat Hygiene Inspectors working in all
abattoirs in England and Wales will continue to ensure that the
safety of consumers remains the top priority.
Nan Jones, British Meat Processors Association (BMPA)
Technical Policy Manager said:
This milestone is of significant value to the industry. To
illustrate, the ability to recover mesenteric fat alone could
generate value of approximately £10 million per year. Given the
substantial benefits this change brings to our members, we hope
that the improving UK–EU relationship offers an opportunity to
seek earlier EU recognition of our status.
Jonathan Eckley, Agriculture and Horticulture Development
Board (AHDB) International Trade Development Director,
said:
This is welcome news for the UK beef sector. It highlights the
strength of our animal health and food safety systems, reinforces
the UK's reputation for high-quality beef, and supports ongoing
efforts to grow our export markets.
Farmers and livestock owners are still urged to remain vigilant
for BSE disease. BSE is a notifiable
animal disease. If you suspect it, you must report it
immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000
200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact
your local Field
Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence. This applies
to pet and small holder animals as well as commercial cattle.
