The epidemic curve for BSE in the UK has peaked and dropped to a fairly steady state of 80 new cases per week over the last year. To prevent the amplification and distribution of BSE if it should occur in the United States, the FDA has promulgated a feed ban on mammalian tissue for ruminant feeds. The FDA is investigating the proper implementation of the regulation. Dr. Don Franco, Director, Scientific Service, National Renders Association and Animal Protein Producers Industry, outlined a new concept for biosecurity of food waste recycling. He estimated that 20 percent of the food produced in the United States becomes a waste product.
Feed is the major cost of animal production.
Non-traditional feeds may be able to reduce feed costs. But many challenges abound, such as the possible transfer of residues or pathogens, consistency of nutrient content, and separation of materials such as plastics. Dr. Dale Boyle, Executiv Director of the National Association of Federal Veterinarians, addressed the variable definitions of epidemiology and use of epidemiologists in the federal government. Epidemiology is still in an embryonic stage. The frequent inability of epidemiologists to clearly explain the meaning of data manipulations has frustrated their acceptance by the public and by policy makers.