New regulations: eliminating salmonella in turkeys

According to Farmers Weekly, in a recent meeting organised by ADAS on behalf of DEFRA, up and coming measures to reduce Salmonella typhimurium and enteridis in turkey flocks was discussed.

Alison Wintrip confirmed that new regulations are due to begin in January 2009. Breeders, layers and broilers have all been surveyed and the aim is for no more than 1% of the breeding flock to remain positive for salmonella by the end of that year.

Although sampling for turkeys is not yet required, producers are advised to take samples, said Wintrip, adding that surveys were completed in 2007 and the sample regime will need to be decided on in 2008, and is expected to come into force in 2010. Sampling will be straightforward and low cost at about £7.50 plus VAT per sample.

She concluded in saying that it is understood that national controls are on the way not just from DEFRA but throughout the EU.