United States | USDA Proposes To Expand Imports From BSE Minimal-Risk Countri...
USDA Proposes To Expand Imports From BSE Minimal-Risk Countries
A proposal to expand the list of imports allowed from countries presenting a minimal risk of introducing bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) into the United States was announced today (Jan. 4) by USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Canada is the only minimal-risk country designated by the United States at this time.
The proposal would allow for import of live animals born after March 1, 1999, the effective date of the Canadian feed ban, as determined by USDA. According to USDA Chief Veterinarian John Clifford, beef from cattle of any age processed in Canada would be eligible for import as well as bovine blood and blood products collected under certain conditions, casings and part of the small intestine.
"This proposal would continue to protect against BSE in the United States while taking the next step forward in our efforts to implement science-based trade relations with countries that have appropriate safeguards in place to prevent BSE," said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns in a written statement.
A public comment period on this proposal will be held Jan. 9 to Mar. 12.
USDA Proposes To Expand Imports From BSE Minimal-Risk Countries
A proposal to expand the list of imports allowed from countries presenting a minimal risk of introducing bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) into the United States was announced today (Jan. 4) by USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Canada is the only minimal-risk country designated by the United States at this time.
The proposal would allow for import of live animals born after March 1, 1999, the effective date of the Canadian feed ban, as determined by USDA. According to USDA Chief Veterinarian John Clifford, beef from cattle of any age processed in Canada would be eligible for import as well as bovine blood and blood products collected under certain conditions, casings and part of the small intestine.
"This proposal would continue to protect against BSE in the United States while taking the next step forward in our efforts to implement science-based trade relations with countries that have appropriate safeguards in place to prevent BSE," said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns in a written statement.
A public comment period on this proposal will be held Jan. 9 to Mar. 12.