BSE
Cattle, sheep and goats can be susceptible to a group of brain diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). The best known of these diseases is BSE (mad cow disease) in cattle.
There are strict controls in place in the UK to protect people from BSE. The Food Standards Agency monitors these controls and publicises any breaches, as well as the actions taken to prevent further failures.
Although no sheep in the UK flock have been found to have BSE, there are a number of precautionary safety measures in place since it has been shown under laboratory conditions that sheep can be infected with BSE. The Agency continues to review and support research into TSEs in animal species used for food.
This archive contains information that has not been updated from the BSE section of this website, please visit the BSE archive.
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About BSE and other TSEs
BSE is one of a group of diseases that affect a number of different mammals. These diseases, known as Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs), or Prion Diseases, result from the build-up of abnormal prion proteins in the brain and nervous system. TSEs get their name from the spongy appearance in the infected brain, and the fact that they are transmissible via infected material.
BSE controls explained: Main controls on production
The Community TSE Regulation 999/2001 (as amended) lays down rules for the prevention, control and eradication of certain transmissible spongiform encephalopathies.
BSE Controls Breaches
These reports provide updates on any BSE controls breaches.
BSE research
Information about the research programme that aims to provide a sound scientific basis for estimating the possible foodborne risk from TSE and related diseases and ensure that enforceable controls are in place to protect consumers.
Facts and Figures
The latest statistics on confirmed BSE cases in Europe and worldwide, breaches of BSE controls, and BSE testing in the EU.
BSE links
Other UK and European sites concerned with BSE, TSEs and CJD.
Cutting plants authorised to remove SRM bovine vertebral column
Vertebral column is specified risk material (SRM) in cattle older than 30 months and can only be removed in approved cutting plants which have been additionally authorised to do so under the TSE Regulations.
BSE committees
Information on the committee that advises the Agency on BSE and other transmissible spongiform encephalopathies.
BSE legislation
Arrangements for the interpretation and enforcement of the Community TSE regulation are set out in the domestic legislation
Cutting plants authorised to remove spinal cord in older sheep and goats
Spinal cord is specified risk material in sheep and goats over 12 months of age or with a permanent incisor erupted and can only be removed in cutting plants authorised under the TSE Regulations.