The
World Organization for Animal Health last week designated
all intestines - not just parts of them - as a risk of
transmitting bovine spongiform encephalopathy.
The Paris-based organization decided to include whole
intestines in materials that pose risks of transmitting
prions associated with BSE to humans after reviewing its
international safety standards.
In response, Japan's Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Minister, Yoshiyuki Kamei, expressed reservations about
changing Japanese safety standards on beef and beef products
in connection with BSE, according to Japan's Kyodo News
Service .
"We have a custom to eat intestines in our country," said
Kamei, stressing the importance of preventing the spread
of harmful rumors that all intestines are dangerous. "We
must make efforts to provide accurate information to consumers."
Japan opposed the proposal, claiming there is no scientific
data suggesting all intestines are a risk.
Following the adoption of the new international safety
standards, the health ministry is expected to begin considering
whether Japan needs to change its own regulations.
