Brussels, 18/10/2011 (Agence Europe) - The temporary ban on imports into the EU of certain seeds from Egypt, which began in July this year, has been extended until end March 2012, according to a decision by the EU on 17 October. Member state experts at the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH) have approved a Commission proposal along these lines.
The temporary embargo on imports of seeds suspected of being at the origin of the fatal E-coli outbreak (EHEC bacteria strain 0104) in northern Germany and then in France, was to expire on 31 October. However, an inspection by the EU Food and Veterinary Office (FVO) revealed that measures taken by the Egyptian authorities to remedy failings observed in the production of seeds and sprouts for human consumption were not sufficient for tackling the risks identified. In mid-September, member states had approved a Commission proposal aimed at exempting from the temporary ban fresh or chilled leguminous vegetables, such as green beans and podded peas. The European Commission now awaits a scientific opinion for the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on the risk posed by Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and other pathogenic bacteria in seeds and sprouts, shoots and cress derived from seeds. The EFSA opinion is expected by the end of this month and will allow the Commission to envisage other measures, if necessary. (AN/transl.jl)