28.05.2008

European Commission

The European Commission recommended lifting a longstanding ban on U.S. poultry imports.
The ban, in place since April 1997 because U.S. poultry producers use a low-concentration chlorine wash on chickens, a practice not permitted in EU countries, has blighted transatlantic trade ties for years.
Under the proposals U.S. poultry will only be allowed into the EU if:
- only whole poultry carcases are treated (parts of carcases or poultry cuts cannot be treated)
- a single substance is used in the slaughterhouse before carcases enter the chilling room 
- rinsing with potable water
- the poultry meat is labelled in a clearly legible way outlining it has either been "treated with antimicrobial substances" or "decontaminated by chemicals."
- Strict conditions for the management of waste water are also provided for in order to ensure the protection of the environment.
The EU's 27 member states, must approve its decision before it can come into force.