USA

USDA modifies requirements for imported Mexican cattle

Livestock

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) asks for permanent identification for imported Mexican cattle to improve traceability and help prevent the spread of tuberculosis and brucellosis.

Posted on Dec 19 ,03:24

USDA modifies requirements for imported Mexican cattle

Endemic cattle disease such as tuberculosis and brucellosis in some parts of Mexico have forced US officials to adopt new requirements for imported cattle from the neighbouring country, according to Drovers magazine.
Currently, cattle imported from Mexico carry at least two forms of identification, generally a brand and an approved ear tag. For feeder cattle, the requirements have specified that steers are branded with an “M,” while “Mx” designates spayed heifers. An “MX” brand or tattoo identifies breeding bovines imported from Mexico.
The new rule will simplify the brands to a simple “M,” while increasing the size of the brand and moving the brands for sexually intact bovines to the right shoulder of the animal. Under the new rule, the brands must be between 3 inches and 5 inches high and wide. For feeder cattle, the “M” mark must be applied to each animal's right hip, with the top of the brand within 4 inches of the midline of the tailhead above the hook and pin bones. The brand should also be within 18 inches of the anus.
An “MX” ear tattoo remains an option for breeder cattle instead of a brand since they have not caused a readability problem and are considered a permanent form of identification.

According to APHIS, the changes will simplify the branding process while helping reduce or eliminate branding errors, rebranding and cattle rejections at port-of-entry inspection.

 NEWSLETTER - Stay informed with the latest news!

Comments





Similar articles

NEW ZEALAND

Red meat sector reaffirms commitment to China with Taste Pure Nature

The campaign is designed to raise awareness and drive preference for New Zealand grass-fed beef a...


Read more Read more
AUSTRALIA

Australia: Producers plan flock reductions

These adjustments are due to pressures brought by persistent drought conditions in SA, Victoria a...


Read more Read more
USA

USDA provides food safety tips for the fourth of July barbecue

"Summer barbecues are a favorite tradition, but they also present unique food safety challenges w...


Read more Read more
Websolutions by Angular Software and SpiderClass