19.06.2008

The European parliament attacked Thursday plans by the European Commission to lift an import ban on US poultry washed in chlorine, which has attracted fierce opposition from member states, consumers and farmers. 

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are calling on the Council to reject the Commission's proposal to authorise four antimicrobial treatments for poultry carcasses for human consumption. Imports of such poultry meat might undermine European standards.
A resolution adopted by 526 votes in favour to 27 against with 11 abstentions stresses that authorisation of these four antimicrobial treatments for poultry carcasses would pose "a serious threat to Community rules and standards". This would constitute a setback for the efforts and adjustments made by poultry professionals with a view to reducing the incidence of bacterial infection in the EU.
MEPs draw attention to the "considerable investments" made in this area by European poultry professionals, in accordance with Community legislation. This was done to reduce pathogen contamination by implementing a total food chain approach. 
This decision is likely to undermine European consumer confidence in foodstuffs sold within the European Union, says the resolution. 
MEPs ask to be consulted and informed by the Commission before any further decisions in preparation for the October 2008 TEC meeting.
The Agriculture Council of 15 July 2008 is expected to discuss the Commission's decision. Ministers can reject the decision by qualified majority.