March 19, 2007

Canadian group launches campaign against BSE
 

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has launched a campaign to raise awareness of new safeguards intended to accelerate the elimination of BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy) from Canadian cattle.

From July 12, specified risk material (SRM) or the cattle tissues capable of transmitting BSE are being banned from all animal feeds, pet foods and fertilizers.

As a result, new requirements such as obtaining CFIA permit, is being implemented in handling, transporting or disposing of SRM. The SRM campaign will also include cattle producers, abattoirs, renderers, fertilizer, pet food and feed manufacturers, waste management facilities and transporters.

Booklets, brochures and posters are being distributed to individuals, groups and organizations and public notices are appearing in agricultural publications and community newspapers across Canada.

The campaign explains that SRM must be clearly identified and appropriately managed until disposal.

There are also specific labelling requirements for any products containing prohibited material.

The CFIA says this broad-based system will help to maintain continuous control over SRM until it no longer poses risks to animal health.