On Wednesday 19 November, the European Commission adopted a report highlighting the fact that equines are excluded from the food chain mainly due to a lack of suitable medicines.
Recommended solutions include improved availability of medicinal products, enhanced cooperation and stricter controls to combat fraud. The Commission favours a gradual approach, making full use of the existing legal framework before considering legislative changes.
The report assesses the situation regarding the medical treatment of equines (horses, donkeys, mules) and their exclusion from the food chain, including imports from third countries. It fulfils the requirements of Regulation 2019/6 on veterinary medicinal products.
According to the report, between 5 and 95% of equines are excluded (depending on the country), mainly due to a lack of authorised medicines for food-producing equines. The reasons for exclusion are poorly documented. However, according to the report, excluded equines can be illegally reintroduced into the food chain, posing a risk of residues of banned substances. Some equines do not receive treatment to avoid exclusion, or are abandoned after exclusion because of euthanasia and rendering costs. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)