The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed that a new case of BSE has been confirmed in Alberta, Canada – the same area in which the previous two cases were also found.

It is believed that the cow was born in March, 1998 - seven months after the introduction of Canada’s ruminant-to-ruminant feed ban went into effect - raising questions as to whether the ban was adhered to or enforced.

A statement from the American National Cattlemen’s Beef Association declared:

“In light of the recent findings of BSE in Canadian cattle, and the fact that this last animal was born after Canada’s feed ban, we demand that USDA and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigate Canada’s feed ban compliance. Based on this information, USDA and the FDA should determine how to proceed with regard to implementation of the Canadian rule. 

“Members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association are committed to normalising global trade based on science that protects the health of our industry. Science shows the feed ban breaks the cycle of this disease, and US cattlemen must be confident of Canada’s full compliance with its feed ban. Once the questions concerning Canada’s compliance with its BSE firewalls have been adequately answered, NCBA members will consider their position on the Canadian rule and efforts to reopen the border.”  

The CFIA stated, however, that it is probable that the animal became infected by eating feed that was produced shortly before the ban came into force.

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