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Campylobacter now present on half of chickens
raw chickens
The reduction is partly due to the fact that many retailers and suppliers have begun to remove the neck skin from chickens before they go on sale.
FSA survey halted until summer
 
The latest data shows campylobacter was present on 50 per cent of fresh shop-bought chickens tested by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) from January to March 2016, compared to 71 per cent last year.

Chickens testing positive for the highest level of contamination has also fallen significantly - from 21.8 per cent in December 2014 to February 2015, to 9.3 per cent this quarter.

FSA's director of policy Steve Wearne says the reduction is partly due to the fact that many retailers and suppliers have begun to remove the neck skin from chickens before they go on sale. As this is the most contaminated part of the bird, this is good news for consumers.

However, it has presented problems for the FSA's campylobacter survey, as the neck skin was the part of the bird they had been testing. As a result, Mr Wearne says comparisons with previous figures is "not as reliable as we would like". Therefore, only an overall figure for campylobacter on chicken is being given this quarter, as opposed to a breakdown of figures by retailers.

The survey has now been halted until summer, when a new method of testing will be introduced. The first results from this survey, which will rank retailers, is expected in January 2017.

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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.