Bord Bia says it’s confident the beef industry can withstand the current challenge its facing – after horse meat was found in burgers sold in Irish supermarkets.
The Food Safety Authority detected the horse DNA during a survey of beef products sold by retailers, including Aldi, Lidl, Tesco, Dunnes and Iceland.
The issue has raised serious concerns about traceability in Irish Food – an investigation into the source of the horse meat is continuing.
Chief Executive of Bord Bia Aidan Cotter says it’s too early to say what effect the discovery will have on Irish exports – but we need to get to the bottom of what happened as soon as possible:
Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney briefed his cabinet colleagues on the situation yesterday evening.
Government Chief Whip Paul Kehoe says it’s important that global markets understand Irish food is safe to eat.
The Food Safety Authority says the horse meat does not pose a risk to public health, but raises concerns about traceability.
Dr Alan Reilly from the FSAI is calling for closer monitoring.
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