Industry welcomes news that UK risk status for BSE has been downgraded
3rd June 2025
The British meat industry has welcomed the announcement that the UK’s risk rating status for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) has been downgraded to negligible.
The UK government explained that the abattoir and meat processing industry will be able to take advantage of changes to control measures, which will reduce operational burdens and release financial savings for the abattoir and meat processing industry.
“The UK’s improved risk status is a reflection of the UK’s global reputation for having some of the highest standards in the world for biosecurity,” a spokesperson for Defra said.
BSE, occasionally known as mad cow disease, was a considerable public health concern in the 1980s, leading to long-standing bans on British beef exports. The downgrading risk status marks a major step forward, reflecting decades of rigorous controls and opening the door to expanded trade and renewed confidence in UK beef.
‘Milestone of significant value to the industry’
Tony Goodger of the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has welcomed the announcement.
He said: “High value markets such as South Korea, where we know there is demand for grass-fed beef, have been closed to UK imports for many years due to our previous WOAH risk status.
“Our members always look forward to meeting with buyers from across the globe who wish to purchase prime British beef and lamb”.
Nan Jones of the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) added: “This milestone is of significant value to the industry. To illustrate, the ability to recover mesenteric fat alone could generate value of approximately £10 million per year.
“Given the substantial benefits this change brings to our members, we hope that the improving UK–EU relationship offers an opportunity to seek earlier EU recognition of our status.”
‘Much-needed boost’
NFU livestock board chair David Barton said: “After the devastating impact of BSE, when thousands of animals had to be culled, it’s excellent to see British farmers’ commitment to robust controls and surveillance now recognised by WOAH.
“Achieving negligible risk status brings significant benefits — not only cost savings in processing and the ability to utilise more of each carcase, but also greater confidence in the quality and safety of our beef in international markets. It is a major step forward for the UK livestock sector, enhancing its global reputation and potentially unlocking new market opportunities for British beef.”
Mr Barton added that the announcement delivers a much-needed boost for producers and the wider supply chain.
“British beef is in demand both at home and abroad, and now is the time to grow the sector. Our 2035 vision for beef outlines the trade policies, supply chain fairness and sustainability policies needed to support that growth going forwards,” he concluded.
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