January 23, 2007

France reports dangerous parasite in pigs

French inspectors have found larvae of the Trichinella spiralis nematode in slaughter pigs.

Though the worm is harmless to pigs, it can cause health risks to humans.

The parasite's larvae were found in a shipment of 400 pigs during a routine control in the very west of France.

According to authorities, the pigmeat has been released into the market but authorities have retrieved a part of the meat in the abattoir and would try to withdraw the rest from retailers and consumers.

Warning posters have been displayed at all meat retail shops and the Ministry of Health has been urging people to boil or fry pork properly in order to reduce the risk of an infection.