August 28, 2020

Australian meat plant suspended from exporting to China following detection of antibiotic traces in beef

Chinese authorities have found antibiotic traces on a consignment of beef originating from a John Dee (Warwicj Bacon) plant in Queensland, Australia, Beef Central reported.

As such, the discovery led to the suspension of the plant's supply to China. It also took the Australian beef sector by surprise as the drug involved,  chloramphenicol, is not registered for use in food animals. According to Beef Central, chloramphenicol is mainly used to treat eye infection in dogs and horses.

"In order to ensure the safety of imported meat products, the customs has officially notified Australia to suspend the export of the company to China, and requires Australia to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the relevant company within 45 days and provide feedback to the Chinese side," a translation of a statement issued by Chinese customs authority said.

John Dee packs grain-fed beef under its own export brands and also provides a substantial service kill to a number of other high-end Australian Wagyu and Angus beef supply chains.

The company, along with Northern Cooperative Meat Co at Casino, are the two largest Wagyu beef processing facilities in Australia.

 - Beef Central