February 14, 2008

US to resume poultry imports to EU after 10-year break
 

European Commission officials have confirmed US poultry imports into the EU are expected to resume this summer following a decision to end a 10-year ban due to health concerns about antimicrobial agents used by US producers.
 

The Transatlantic Economic Council, an informal regulatory body set up to assist trade and investment between the EU and US, is due to rule in June that US poultry exports should be allowed into the EU, with the European Commission expected to support the decision.

The council will also detail solutions to trade problems hindering transatlantic commerce.

The 10-year ban was already set to be lifted in 2005, when the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) said the use of antimicrobial agents, designed to rid US poultry of salmonella, is not threatening to consumers' health.