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Plans to tackle campylobacter stepped up
chicken
Campylobacter is the biggest cause of food poisoning in the UK.
Key organisations discuss practical methods to reduce food poisoning

A working group comprising government and food industry stakeholders has stepped up its efforts to tackle campylobacter in raw poultry meat.

At its most recent meeting, the group - which includes the National Farmer's Union (NFU), Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Defra - discussed practical methods of controlling the bacteria on farm.

NFU president Meurig Raymond said industry collaboration is essential to finding a solution to campylobacter.

"Campylobacter is not a new issue for the poultry industry," he said. "It is a very complex organism which is able to adapt to different environments.

"It's incredibly positive to see how much research the industry has undertaken and has in the pipeline for the near future."

Those in attendance heard updates on research projects that are currently being carried out to establish the most effective measures, for example through improved packaging and improving consumer awareness of correct handling and storage of raw poultry meat.

Bob Martin, head of food-borne disease strategy at FSA, said: "Campylobacter is the biggest cause of food poisoning in the UK so it is vital we work together to tackle this problem.

"We must look at every stage of the food chain to identify solutions that will make a real impact and we welcome the work the NFU and other partners are doing to help us achieve this."

Mr Martin added that as well reducing the level of contamination in raw products, improving consumer awareness of safe food handling is essential.

A conference will be held at NFU headquarters on March 28 to bring together stakeholders in sharing best practice and areas for development.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.