The UK has been officially reclassified as a ‘negligible risk’ country for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), marking a critical turning point for British beef exports.
This upgraded status, the lowest risk classification for BSE, follows decades of biosecurity measures and robust food safety protocols. It clears a significant hurdle that has limited international market access since the BSE crisis of the 1980s and 1990s, when many countries imposed strict bans on UK beef.
For stakeholders across the meat processing, abattoir operations, and beef export logistics sectors, the reclassification presents new commercial opportunities. It enables greater carcass utilisation, including previously restricted parts, resulting in potential cost savings and added value across the supply chain. For example, the ability to recover mesenteric fat could generate up to £10 million annually.
The change is expected to ease trade negotiations with global markets and may help fast-track progress with the EU and other importers. While core food safety measures remain in place, the reduced risk status is anticipated to lower compliance burdens and bolster the UK’s position in the premium beef segment internationally.