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AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION
OTTAWA
MEDIA RELEASE
21 October 2009
NEW FOOD SAFETY RULES FOR BEEF
Following a review, the Australian Government has announced that it is adjusting its imported food policy settings regarding bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) for beef and beef products. The changes will come into effect from 1 March 2009.
When BSE was reported in a number of countries in 2001, Australia prohibited imports of beef products immediately from any country that had reported any case of BSE. The review that was undertaken of the scientific evidence concludes that it is possible to import beef from countries that have reported cases of BSE and maintain a high level of protection for the public, provided appropriate risk management mechanisms are put in place.
The decision reinforces Australia’s strong science-based risk-management approach to human, animal and plant health policy, and supports our position in international standard setting organisations. Countries seeking access to Australia’s beef market will be required to undergo a rigorous risk assessment led by Food Standards Australia New Zealand.
For further information see http://www.trademinister.gov.au/releases/2009/sc_091020.html