April 2, 2007

OIE ruled "controlled risk" on US beef
 

In a move seen to bolster efforts in fully reopening Pacific Rim markets for US beef, the World Organization for Animal Health's (OIE) Scientific Commission has endorsed in March US beef products be classified as "controlled risk" for BSE.

The agency's General Assembly will vote on the recommendation in May.

Ron DeHaven, USDA administrator for Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service said:  "The controlled risk classification recognizes that OIE-recommended, science-based mitigation measures are in place to effectively manage any possible risk of BSE in the cattle population. This recommendation provides strong support that US regulatory controls are effective and that U.S cattle and products from cattle of all ages can be safely traded in accordance with international guidelines, due to our interlocking safeguards."

But the Kyodo News reported Japan won't immediately ease on its import terms for US beef despite the OIE announcement. Japan currently only accepts beef products from cattle 20 months of age and younger.