US Meat Banned by Russia After Ractopamine Discovery
RUSSIA - State surveillance service, Rosselkhoznadzor, has detected banned growth promoter ractopamine in imported beef liver and pork meat consignments from the US resulting in US meat restrictions.
1 February 2013
1 minute read
Packages produced by plants No.17D and No.235 contained the ractompamine in what Russian officials have called a ‘crude violation’ of Russian and Customs Union animal health requirements.
Prohibited for use in Russia, the discovery follows prior meat safety warnings issued to the US.
Starting on February 11, US imports will be limited, Rosselkhoznadzor Chief, Sergei Dankvert told new service, Interfax.
The move is a ‘compelled measure’ due to repeated pleas with the US to conform with Russian meat stipulations, added Mr Dankvert.
Business impact from resulting sale restrictions will be minimised as much as possible through consultations with Russian meat market operators. Mr Dankvert hopes to divert the product from Russia to other markets.
Prior to this Canadian beef imports to Russia were also restricted due to ractopamine presence. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has said it is looking into ways to meet Russian requirements.
Future labelling on consignments to Russia will incorporate a ractopamine free documentation, certifying products are from livestock not fed the growth promoter.
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