Bute health risk to be assessed
Following the recent horse meat scandal, the European Commission has asked for an assessment on the risks of phenylbutazone (bute) to human health. Bute has been known to pose a risk to human health, and as a result its use in animals entering the food chain is prohibited.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) are to carry out a joint assessment following the recent discovery of bute in a small number of horse carcasses intended for human consumption.
The two agencies will use all available scientific evidence, taking into account the results of ongoing horse meat testing in member states, as and when these become available.
In advising of any risk to consumers, the EFSA and EMA will consider the risks arising from consumption of horse meat, as well as the risks posed by products that have been illegally contaminated with horse meat. The agencies will also advise if additional control options are needed.
The EFSA and EMA will provide scientific advice to the European Commission by 15 April 2013. Their advice will be used to help inform decision making with regards to the recent findings.
Meanwhile, an overhaul of the horse passport system is expected in the next six months. Flaws in the system have been blamed for the presence of bute in horses meant for human consumption, and plans for an overhaul have been welcomed within the industry.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
