Ms Jones said:

The proposed Regulations provide a framework for the National Control Programme (NCP) that details the phases of production which sampling and testing for Salmonella must cover. In particular, it will set the target for an annual reduction of at least 10% in the number of positive adult laying flocks, compared with the previous year. The starting baseline in Wales and for the rest of the UK, will be 8% prevalence of Salmonella Enteritidis and S. Salmonella Typhimurium serotypes.

The results of nation-wide survey of commercial laying flocks carried out in 2004 –2005 showed that around 8% of layer flock holdings in the United Kingdom (UK) were infected with Salmonella Enteritidis or Salmonella Typhimurium.

The Minister said:

This demonstrates excellent progress of industry-led initiatives to reduce Salmonella prevalence in laying flocks. However, work still needs to be done to reduce this level further and minimise the possible impact of the heat treatment requirement on producers. The NCP will enable the laying flocks sector to build on its success in the protection of human health and benefit from producers across the EU applying approaches that are consistent and comparable.

The full consultation package, which includes the National Control Programme, a summary of the consultation and an assessment of the likely impact of the regulations are available at: http://new.wales.gov.uk/consultations/currentconsultation/envandcouncurrcons/1650749/?lang=en

Further Reading

- Find out more information on salmonellosis by clicking here.