NCBA Statement on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s Amendments to their ‘Feed Rule’

December 10, 2004

“The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) appreciates the opportunity to review the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) proposed amendments to their federal regulations relating to reducing the risk of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in Canadian cattle.

“NCBA has always supported the prevention of BSE through the application of science- and risk analysis-based measures. Both Canada and the U.S. have developed and enforced equivalent feed restrictions since 1997 that are designed to prevent the exposure of cattle to feed ingredients that might contain the BSE agent. 

“In addition, both Canada and the U.S. have undertaken a large one-time BSE surveillance program to determine the prevalence of the disease. The Harvard Center for Risk Analysis conducted an assessment of the measures taken to prevent BSE in North America and estimated the threat of BSE is very low.

“These estimates are further validated based upon findings of the expanded surveillance program. In addition, extensive herd depopulations and testing in Canada have not identified additional cases of BSE.

“NCBA supports the review of any measures which could further reduce our risk to BSE based upon sound science. However, to date, the surveillance programs confirm that the risk of BSE in North America – and in this case, Canada – is extremely low, and that enforcement of existing feed restrictions is adequate to continue eradication of BSE in North America.

“NCBA is reviewing the proposed regulations published in the Canada Gazette Part 1 and will provide comments on the proposal within the 75-day comment period ending Feb. 24.”