Livestock markets, auctions, bull and boar stations, and incinerating plants are equally subject to veterinary scrutiny. Regulations have been introduced concerning animal health advice for livestock farmers. The farmer makes an agreement with his vet on regular advisory visits, where together they work out an action plan, and inspect the herd, to hinder potential long-term health problems. By fighting all serious contagious livestock diseases, Denmark has managed to create the veterinary basis for a large export of meat, dairy products and other animal products to countries upholding very stringent demands on animal welfare and food hygiene. It is a basic principle in Danish food legislation that the producers carry full responsibility for the safety of their products.
Companies are subject to state control as well as internal control.
Internal control ensures that the company operates work routines that prevent any health risks arising when handling foodstuffs. The fact that a company has introduced internal control does not mean exemption from state control. State control must, in addition to verifying that internal control functions properly, oversee areas where internal control cannot be applied. Food production companies in Denmark are subject to legislative rules governing establishment, operations procedures, production, hygiene etc. With the exception of a small number of animals slaughtered at the farm for domestic consumption, all animals are killed at certified abattoirs, under veterinary supervision.