March 28, 2014

Russia temporarily limits Australian beef imports from JBS subsidiary

After detecting a growth hormone it prohibits, Russia has imposed temporary limits on Australian beef imports from a subsidiary of Brazil's JBS SA, its veterinary and phytosanitary service (VPSS) said.

Due to the presence of the stimulant Trenbolone, Russia is considering temporary limits on all beef imports from Australia.

Other Australian subsidiaries of JBS are still allowed to supply beef to Russia. The company has eight beef processing units in Australia, according to its web site.

"The Russian embargo on one of JBS's Australian units has little effect on the company's business," a JBS representative said, adding that orders in Russia would be filled from units in North America and South America.

Brazil, JBS's home country, has banned the use of Trenbolone to enhance animal growth since 2011.