February 1, 2007

Taiwan to ban live poultry trade, urges consumers to buy certified poultry

The Taiwanese government urged consumers Wednesday to purchase only poultry labeled with official quality certification, such as the Certified Agricultural Standard (CAS) logo created by the Council of Agriculture (COA). 

The announcement was made at a press conference as part of bird flu prevention efforts.

Chen Chien-jen, the convener of the government's meeting on the prevention and control of bird flu, said it is important that people avoid coming into contact with live fowl. As part of bird flu prevention measures, Taiwan has imposed a ban against the trade in and slaughter of live fowl at traditional markets,

The government would also publicize other new measures scheduled to come into effect in April 2008.

Taiwanese consumers have a preference for poultry sold at traditional markets to assure themselves  the birds are healthy and sound.