Posted by Dr. Sara Barber on June 15 2004 14:45
Beef Newsletter 1st Quarter 2004
What is Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE)?
BSE, widely known as "mad cow disease", is a chronic degenerative disease affecting the central nervous system of cattle.
What is the current status of BSE infected animals in the US?
There has been only one case of BSE diagnosed in the US. This was a 6.5 year old dairy cow from Washington State. This cow was imported from Canada in August of 2001. The Washington herd where this cow was found is being depopulated and all animals are being tested. No other infected animals have been found. The USDA is searching for the other 80 animals that were from the original herd imported in 2001. As of January 22nd, 23 of the original 81 cows have been located.
Was the USDA testing for BSE before this cow was found?
USDA has been testing for BSE in the US since 1990. Import restrictions on animals coming from BSE positive countries have been in place since 1989.
Is beef safe to eat?
US beef IS safe to consume. Regulations were previously in place regarding the handling of brain and spinal cords (high risk materials for BSE spread). Since December 30, 2003, there has been a ban on the use of non-ambulatory cows in the food supply along with further restrictions on brain and spinal cord handling.