BSE screening test

In September 2001, cattle infected with BSE for the first time in Japan were confirmed. In response to this, all meat hygiene laboratories nationwide have been conducting screening tests for all cows since October 18, 2001. In addition, from July 1, 2013, the inspection target was changed to cattle over 48 months old, but more than 15 years have passed since the start of domestic beef spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) measures. Based on the significant decline in domestic risks and the results of the Food Health Impact Assessment by the Cabinet Office Food Safety Commission (August 2016), relevant ministerial ordinances have been revised. As a result, the BSE test for healthy cattle was abolished from April 2017, and cattle that show neurological symptoms of unknown cause in biological tests at least 24 months old will be inspected continuously. In addition, the procedure for conducting the test was revised from April 2024, and cows with abnormal behavior or neurological symptoms in biological tests are now subject to testing regardless of age.
In Motoichi, we abolished BSE inspection of healthy cow from April 1, 2017 according to notice of country. In addition, we will continue to conduct tests for cattle showing abnormal behavior or neurological symptoms in biological tests.