MSNBC reports that the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) says that the cow suspected to have been infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy [BSE], also known as mad cow disease, was born before 1997, when a ban was imposed on the use of cattle remains in animal feed.
“It is significant to note that this animal was born prior to the implementation of the 1997 feed ban — another example our safeguards are working,” the USDA said.
As reported yesterday on MNB, the new cow – which was slaughtered and apparently did not enter the food chain – generated a “weak positive” in one test and now is having additional tests done. USDA is unable to say at this time whether the cow currently under suspicion was imported or was native to the US.
“It is significant to note that this animal was born prior to the implementation of the 1997 feed ban — another example our safeguards are working,” the USDA said.
As reported yesterday on MNB, the new cow – which was slaughtered and apparently did not enter the food chain – generated a “weak positive” in one test and now is having additional tests done. USDA is unable to say at this time whether the cow currently under suspicion was imported or was native to the US.
- KC's View:
