Russia bans import of protein feed of animal origin

Russia has implemented a complete embargo on imports of protein feeds of animal origin from all EU countries, Rosselkhoznadzor has reported.

This decision was made “in connection with the need to harmonise Russian legislation with international “as well as taking into account multiple detections of ruminant DNA in imported feed. This poses a risk of skidding spongiform encephalopathy agents (so-called “mad cow disease”) on the territory of Russia, quoted the statement of Rosselkhoznadzor, the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance.

Rosselkhoznadzor notes that the restriction applies to processed animal protein intended for productive animal feeding. At the same time, it does not apply to food protein obtained from fish processing.

All previously issued by Rosselkhoznadzor permissions to import these products to Russia for use in feeding of productive animals are canceled. All feed, shipped to Russia before the 26 March 2012, will be received as usual.

Earlier Tuesday, Rosselkhoznadzor also banned the purchase of live pigs, cattle, sheep and goats from the EU. This measure Rosselkhoznadzor made due to the numerous outbreaks of Schmallenberg virus in the EU countries, and a wide spread of other viral diseases – bluetongue.