The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is soliciting input on proposed guidance concerning Mechanically Separated Meat (MSM), following recent legal rulings that clarified its definition and regulatory implications. These guidelines aim to assist food businesses, particularly in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, in navigating the evolving landscape surrounding MSM classification and usage.
Rebecca Sudworth, FSA’s director of policy, emphasized the importance of gathering feedback from both consumers and industry stakeholders to ensure the effectiveness of the guidance. The FSA acknowledges the potential impact of these court rulings on businesses and seeks to provide comprehensive support and clarity through the consultation process.
Key aspects of the proposed guidance include clarifying the definition of MSM, specifying permissible sources (pork or poultry), and mandating accurate labeling in product ingredients. Notably, MSM does not contribute to the meat content percentage in final products, underscoring its distinction from fresh ground meat.
The consultation also addresses potential operational adjustments that businesses may need to undertake to comply with regulatory requirements, such as relabeling products and ensuring adherence to hygiene standards. Furthermore, companies transitioning to MSM activity must obtain approval from regulatory authorities.
Meanwhile, the FSA has endorsed Brazil’s efforts to enhance food safety controls in its meat sector, leading to the lifting of import restrictions on beef and poultry. This decision follows a thorough review of Brazil’s food safety control systems and signifies a move towards risk-based checks at the border, with intensified controls reserved for non-compliant consignments.
Despite these developments, challenges persist, as evidenced by a recent court ruling in Brazil regarding fines imposed on a slaughterhouse implicated in Operation Carne Fraca. While progress has been made in addressing food safety concerns, ongoing vigilance and collaboration between regulatory authorities remain paramount to ensure the integrity of the global food supply chain.
Source: Food Safety News
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