Assessment of Levels of Supervision of SRM Controls in Abattoirs and Cutting Plants

Research Approach:<BR> A risk assessment model to inform the policy review of supervision of specified risk materials (SRM) controls being carried out by the FSA has been developed in a recent study (M03041). The original scope for the SRM Controls model covered under thirty month (UTM) slaughter in abattoirs and sheep abattoirs. This research extends the model to include the slaughter of OTM cattle in abattoirs and the meat production in cutting plants so that the impact, in terms of the risk of BSE entering the food chain, of alternative supervision levels in OTM abattoirs and cutting plants, can be considered. The model for UTM slaughter will be modified to include the special features of OTM slaughter. A workshop with individuals with expert knowledge of OTM slaughter will be held to elicit the values required for the model to ensure that these values are robust. The results will provide the basis for the evaluation of alternative options for change in the way SRM controls in OTM abattoirs and cutting plants are enforced.

<p>Find more about this project and other FSA food safety-related projects at the <a href="http://www.food.gov.uk/science/research/&quot; target="_blank">Food Standards Agency Research webpage</a>.