TheDairySite BSE News
CFIA Launches Feed Ban Awareness Campaign
OTTAWA - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has launched a communications campaign to raise awareness of new safeguards intended to accelerate the elimination of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or mad cow disease, from Canadian cattle.Beginning July 12, 2007, certain cattle tissues capable of transmitting BSE, known as specified risk material (SRM), are being banned from all animal feeds, pet foods and fertilizers. As a result, there are new requirements for anyone handling, transporting or disposing of SRM, including: cattle producers; abattoirs; renderers; fertilizer, pet food and feed manufacturers; waste management facilities; and, transporters.
Booklets, brochures and posters are being distributed to individuals, groups and organizations. Public notices are appearing in agricultural publications and community newspapers across Canada. The CFIA is also hosting technical workshops for regulated parties.
The campaign materials explain that SRM must be clearly identified and appropriately managed until disposal. A CFIA permit is required for anyone handling, transporting or disposing of SRM. There are also specific labelling requirements for any products containing prohibited material. This broad-based system will help to maintain continuous control over SRM until it no longer poses risks to animal health. With opportunities for BSE spread minimized, Canada will move more quickly toward the eventual eradication of the disease from the national herd.
Cattle Site News Desk
