The UK has lifted a ban which has stopped older cattle from entering the human food chain since March 1996 and has replaced it with a BSE testing regime.

The end of the Over Thirty Month (OTM) Rule follows acceptance by the Government in September of a robust testing regime that has been developed. Cattle born before August 1, 1996 will continue to be excluded from the food chain.

Lord Bach, Minister for Sustainable Farming and Food, said, "The replacement of the OTM rule marks a significant step in the year-on-year decline of the BSE epidemic to record low levels. This is a measure that we've worked very hard to achieve over the last nine years.”

Abattoirs, which were able to slaughter older cattle from November 7, have been required to meet strict standards endorsed by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). These include a two day assessment and entering into a legally binding agreement with the MHS on operational procedures.