28.07.2016

A report from the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food (ACMSF) states that the risk of salmonella in UK eggs produced under the Lion code is now “very low”. It is recommending that the FSA considers amending its advice.
The report says: “There has been a major reduction in the microbiological risk from salmonella in UK hen shell eggs since the 2001 ACMSF report.“This is especially the case for those eggs produced under the Lion code quality assurance scheme.“In practical terms, the group considered that the ‘very low’ risk level means that UK eggs produced under the Lion code, or under demonstrably equivalent comprehensive schemes, can be served raw or lightly cooked to all groups in society, including those that are more vulnerable to infection, in domestic and non-domestic settings, including care homes and hospitals.”The committee adds that the recommendation is not intended to include “severely immunocompromised individuals”, but does include “vulnerable groups in general including pregnant women, the young and the elderly”.
A statement from the FSA said: “Following committee approval and a UK-wide consultation of the report, the FSA has agreed to examine its advice taking into account the committee’s conclusions and recommendations.”