October 5, 2006

EU finds Brazilian beef safe, except those from 3 states

An EU technical team has found that with the exception of supplies from 3 states, beef from Brazil is generally safe, according to an industry source.

The team, working with the World Organization of Animal Health (OIE) was investigating foot-and-mouth disease in Brazil, according to Latin American Digest.

Although beef from Sao Paulo, Parana and Mato Grosso do Sul states would remain banned, beef from other states would be considered safe, the team declared.

The European farming industry have long protested against low priced Brazilian beef and called for a ban on beef from the whole country, citing foot-and-mouth disease concerns.