​Rising Concerns Over Imported Poultry: NFU and FSA Address Salmonella Risks

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) has voiced significant concerns regarding the safety of poultry products imported into the UK, particularly in light of recent reports of increasing Salmonella enteritidis cases linked to imports from Poland. The NFU's alarm centres on over 200 reported human cases of salmonellosis in 2023 alone, related to the consumption of imported poultry meat and eggs.

This development has prompted a concerted response from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the UK Health Security Agency, emphasising the importance of consumers' proper handling and cooking of poultry products. The FSA actively engages with Polish and EU officials to enhance the safety protocols for poultry and eggs exported from Poland to the UK.

James Mottershead, the chair of the NFU Poultry Board, has urged the public to trust in the high standards British poultry farmers uphold. He highlights the stringent food safety and environmental regulations British producers adhere to, contrasting these with the potentially lower standards of imported products. Mottershead's comments reinforce the NFU's stance that imported products should match the UK's high food safety benchmarks.

FSA's Advisory Role and Upcoming Import Controls

In addition to the NFU's statements, the FSA plays a crucial advisory role, led by Tina Potter, head of incidents at the agency. Potter's guidance includes recommendations on storing, handling, and cooking poultry products, emphasising the necessity of following specific cooking instructions to eliminate harmful bacteria.

The FSA's warning extends beyond household consumption, noting cases involving eggs from Poland used in restaurant and café meals. This has led to a call for local authorities to remind food businesses about essential hygiene practices.

Implications and Future Measures

The situation underscores the challenges and responsibilities associated with being a trading nation in food. The UK's forthcoming import controls on food and feed from the EU directly respond to these challenges. These controls ensure compliance with the UK's high food and feed standards, safeguarding public health.

In summary, the NFU's concerns and the FSA's proactive measures and advisory role highlight the ongoing efforts to maintain the UK's food safety standards, especially in the context of imported poultry products. The emphasis remains firmly on ensuring that imported food products meet the rigorous standards established within the UK, reflecting a commitment to public health and consumer safety.