Animal By-Products
Animal by-products (ABPs) encompass a wide range of materials derived from animals, including slaughterhouse waste, spoiled meat, and products from animals not slaughtered for human consumption.
Animal by-products (ABPs) are materials derived from animals that are not intended for human consumption. These include a variety of substances and products such as:
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Slaughterhouse Waste: Blood, bones, offal, and other parts not used for human food.
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Products Unfit for Human Consumption: Spoiled meat and other products that are no longer safe for human consumption.
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Animals Not Slaughtered for Consumption: Products from animals that died from causes other than slaughter.
Categories of Animal By-Products
ABPs are categorised into three main categories based on their potential risk to public and animal health:
| Category | Risk | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | High | Includes specified risk material (SRM) such as the spinal cord of cattle, animals suspected or confirmed with a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE), and products containing environmental contaminants. |
| 2 | Medium | Includes manure, digestive tract content, and materials not falling into Category 1 but unsuitable for human or animal consumption. |
| 3 | Low | Includes parts of slaughtered animals fit for human consumption but not intended for it, like hides, skins, and certain by-products from food production. |
Processing and Utilisation of ABPs
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Collection and Handling: ABPs are collected from slaughterhouses, food processing plants, and other sources. Proper handling and storage are crucial to prevent contamination and ensure safety.
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Rendering and Processing: Rendering is a common method for processing ABPs, converting them into useful materials such as:
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Protein Meals: Utilised in pet food and as fertilisers.
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Fats and Oils: Used in biodiesel, animal feed, and industrial products.
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Disposal and Incineration: Materials that cannot be processed for further use are often disposed of via incineration or landfill. Strict regulations ensure minimal environmental impact.
Regulations and Compliance
The European Union has stringent regulations governing the management of ABPs to safeguard public and animal health, prevent disease transmission, and protect the environment. Key regulations include:
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Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009: Sets out health rules for animal by-products not intended for human consumption.
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Regulation (EU) No 142/2011: Provides detailed implementing measures for the management and control of ABPs.
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Regulation (EU) 2017/2279: Amends previous regulations to include specific measures for certain ABPs.
Industry and Environmental Impact
ABPs are crucial for various industries, contributing to sustainable practices and waste reduction. Industries utilising ABPs include:
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Agriculture: Fertilisers and soil conditioners.
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Energy: Biodiesel production from animal fats.
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Pet Food and Animal Nutrition: Protein meals and other nutrients.
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Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals: Ingredients derived from animal by-products.
