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Safety of UK eggs sees 'major improvements'
egg
Chair of the expert group, John Coia, said eggs produced under the Lion Code "could be served raw or lightly cooked to both those in good health and those in more vulnerable groups."
FSA consults on changing its advice for consumers
 
There has been a major reduction in the risk of salmonella from UK eggs since 2001 - particularly those produced under the Lion Code or equivalent schemes. This is the conclusion of a new report by the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF).

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is now seeking views on whether the advice to consumers should change.

Currently, consumers are advised that eating raw or lightly cooked eggs may cause food poisoning and should not be eaten by vulnerable groups including pregnant women, children and the elderly.

Professor John Coia, chair of the ACMSF's expert ad hoc group on eggs, recommended that eggs produced under the Lion Code or equivalent "could be served raw or lightly cooked to both those in good health and those in more vulnerable groups."

FSA has launched an eight-week consultation, inviting comments on the recommended changes to its advice. Views are welcomed from a range of stakeholders, including food and hospitality industries, consumer and enforcement bodes and healthcare practitioners.

All comments must be submitted to the FSA by 16 September 2016.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.