The UK’s risk rating status for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) has been downgraded to negligible by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
The UK Government described it as “a major boost for the food and farm sector”, saying that more avenues will now be open for trade with other countries as the improved risk status for beef and bovine products is recognised.
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, the UK Government said.
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 Smith, 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.”
