BSE Risk Assessment

cattle health
resolution and position statement

BSE Risk Assessment

BACKGROUND: Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is a chronic, degenerative disorder affecting the nervous system of cattle. It is associated with consumption of animal proteins contaminated with specific risk materials containing the infective agent.

A prudent, scientifically sound, risk-based approach to regulation is essential to control risk of transmission of BSE in North America.

The quantitative BSE risk assessment prepared by the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis (the Harvard model) indicates that an amplification of the BSE agent is unlikely in the U.S. due to Federal feed regulations.

The Harvard model is a useful tool in evaluating the potential effectiveness of regulatory changes proposed by USDA and FDA.

Since the confirmation of BSE in North America, USDA has initiated an enhanced BSE surveillance effort. In addition, both USDA and FDA have implemented or proposed new regulations designed to reduce the risk of transmission of BSE.

RESOLUTION: The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) encourages FDA and USDA to utilize appropriate risk assessment tools, including the Harvard model and results of the enhanced BSE surveillance effort in evaluating changes to regulations regarding BSE. Results of these evaluations should be used in determining the utility of regulations.

NIAA continues to encourage USDA and FDA to utilize science as a basis for public policy decisions regarding BSE. Prior to initiating regulations affecting the US livestock industry, greater emphasis needs to be placed on utilizing OIE standards as well as negotiating North American minimum regulatory standards that will better harmonize regulations and facilitate trade from minimum risk regions based on science.

Continued emphasis on building collaboration with all affected state and industry partners is critical to long-term success of the National BSE Surveillance program.

Further regulatory efforts to implement a mammalian-to-mammalian protein ban or total SRM ban in all animal feed must be based on cost/risk reduction benefit analysis and comprehensive SRM, deadstock disposal planning.

Approved: 2004 | Amended: 2005

The Cattle Health committee objectives are to facilitate the development and implementation of programs to control and eradicate beef and dairy cattle diseases and programs to assure the wholesomeness of food products derived from milk and beef.

Reprinting of this resolution is encouraged.