Call for regional approach to Brazil bird flu
The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters
has urged the government to adopt a regional approach to the avian flu outbreak
in Brazil.
It has warned that a blanket ban could hurt local consumers.
The outbreak has prompted bans from the European Union, as well as Mexico, Chile, and Uruguay.
The association said imported poultry helps close the supply gap and keeps prices in check.
It has warned that any disruption could increase chicken prices and threaten food security in South Africa.
READ: SA Poultry warns of possible bird flu crisis
It suggested that the government follow recommendations by the World Organisation for Animal Health to restrict imports only from the specific affected regions in a country.
The association said Brazil supplies over 84% of South Africa’s poultry imports and more than 90% of its mechanically deboned meat, which is used in processed products like polony and sausages.
It added that there is no local production or alternative market of mechanically deboned meat to meet that demand.
Find us on social media
Follow the ECR Newswatch WhatsApp channel here
