NFU Scotland has responded to the confirmation of an isolated case of classical Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in Dumfries and Galloway.

The case was identified through Scotland’s routine BSE surveillance programme. The animal did not enter the human food chain and Food Standards Scotland has confirmed there is no risk to human health as a result of this isolated case.

NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon said:

“While disappointing, and clearly a huge concern for the farmer involved, the identification of an isolated BSE case demonstrates that the stringent surveillance and control measures we have in place are working effectively.

“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the farmer affected. They will be doing everything they can to assist the veterinary authorities with their investigation, and NFU Scotland stands ready to support them in any way we can.

“We welcome the clear reassurance that the animal did not enter the human food chain and that there is no risk to human health.

“Scotland has robust measures in place to identify and deal with cases such as this, and the swift detection of this case shows those controls are doing their job.”

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is investigating the source of the disease, with precautionary measures in place for the affected animals.

The Scottish Government statement is available here.