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Disposing of animal by-products: Legislation and enforcement

On 7 September 2009  the European Commission’s proposal to replace the Animal By-Products Regulation 1774/2002/EC, which lays down health rules as regards animal by-products not intended for human consumption, was ratified by the European Council. The proposal was adopted by the European Parliament in April 2009, and will be published the Official Journal (OJ) on 14 November 2009.

The new Animal By-Products Regulation will apply from February 2011 (15 months after publication in the OJ) to allow time for detailed implementing rules to be agreed, where provision has been made for these in the text of the Regulation.

Defra is grateful to those stakeholders who have taken time to respond to the various consultations on the Commission’s proposal. Stakeholder input has helped to shape the Government’s responses to the Commission, and informed negotiations so that the revised Regulation takes into account impact across a wide range of sectors in the UK.  

A final formal consultation will take place in Spring 2010 on the domestic implementing legislation. If you wish to take part in this consultation and have not previously  been included in consultations on the regulation please contact abp.team@defra.gsi.gov.uk / or ABP Team, Area 5B, 9 Millbank, c/o Defra 17 Smith Square, London SW1P and we will add your details to our database.

The current Animal By-Products Regulation (EC) No. 1774/2002 (PDF 3 MB - Please note this is a large file) controls the collection, transport, storage, handling, processing and use or disposal of animal by-products in EU member states.

Amending regulations can be found on the EUR-Lex website by searching for Regulation (EC) No. 1774/2002:

The Animal By-Products Regulations 2005 (SI 2347/2005) provide for the application of the EU Regulation in England. Similar legislation applies in Scotland and Wales. The England Regulations were amended with effect from 2 May 2009 by the Animal By-Products (Amendment) Regulations 2009 (SI 2009/1119).

Enforcement

Local Authorities (usually trading standards) are responsible for enforcement of animal by-products legislation in England, except in licensed slaughterhouses, cutting plants and cold stores.

The Meat Hygiene Service (MHS) are responsible for enforcement of animal by-products legislation in licensed slaughterhouses, cutting plants and cold stores, on behalf of Defra.

The Secretary of State, through Animal Health, also has the powers to enforce where necessary. Animal Health are also responsible for inspection and approval of animal by-products premises on behalf of Defra.

Page last modified: 06 November 2009