New TSE regulations introduced and an end to Defra funded collection of fallen cattle

Defra are changing the regulations on Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies

The new regulations take account of EU legislation which enables the UK to raise the age threshold above which all cattle slaughtered for human consumption and all fallen cattle must be tested for BSE.

From 1 January 2009, the UK will test all cattle aged over 48 months. This only applies to cattle born in the UK or other EU15 Member States. 

The Defra-funded collection and disposal service for fallen cattle in Great Britain ended on 31 December 2008 for 24 to 48 month old cattle that die after that date.

From 12 January 2009, cattle keepers in Great Britain will be responsible for arranging and paying for the disposal of carcases of over 48 month old cattle which must still be tested for BSE.  Cattle keepers must arrange for such carcases to be delivered to an approved sampling site within 24 hours of death and the carcase must then be delivered to the site within a further 48 hours.