Press Release: Commissioner David Byrne welcomes Council agreement on hygiene rules for food of animal origin

David Byrne, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, welcomed on 16 December 2002 the political agreement by the Council on a Regulation to set hygiene rules for food of animal origin. The measure was proposed by the Commission as part of its general hygiene package. Food of animal origin is particularly prone to microbiological and chemical hazards. This measure aims to prevent hazards to human health arising from such food. The legislation focuses on setting objectives while leaving business flexibility in deciding which safety measures to take.

The Regulation on hygiene rules for food of animal origin is being adopted through the co-decision procedure. Following a common position by Council, it is expected to go to the European Parliament for a second reading during the first half of 2003.