ARU proposes strong sanctions against meat residues
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- ARU proposes stricter penalties for cattle with drug residues, advocating for a system of adjustable fines proportional to the damage caused.
- The organization questions the frigorific industry's proposal to withhold payment for animals found with residues, emphasizing the need for clear certification and producer accountability.
- ARU highlights the challenges of "death of animals" and "residues in meat" as primary concerns in tick eradication efforts, calling for realistic control schemes over total eradication.
The Rural Association of Uruguay (ARU) is pushing for a more robust and deterrent approach to combatting drug residues in meat, a critical issue impacting the livestock sector. ARU president, Patricio Ferber, has clearly articulated the need for a system of "fines that hurt" – adjustable penalties that are uniform, clear, and directly proportional to the harm inflicted by contaminated meat reaching the market. This stance underscores a commitment to safeguarding consumer health and maintaining the integrity of Uruguayan exports.
Tiene que ser algo que duela, que sea claro, que cualquiera pueda calcularlo y saber a qué se enfrenta
Ferber's proposals also address the crucial aspect of producer responsibility. He stressed the necessity of a thoroughly certified process to identify the origin of any animal found with residues. "If it is not absolutely proven, the presumption of innocence comes first," he stated, indicating a balanced approach that respects due process while demanding accountability. This focus on traceability is vital for isolating the source of contamination and preventing future occurrences, thereby protecting the reputation of responsible producers.
Si no está absolutamente comprobado, la presunción de inocencia va primero
Furthermore, ARU has voiced concerns regarding the proposal by the Chamber of Refrigeration Industry (CIF) to refuse payment for animals testing positive for tick-borne drug residues. Ferber argues for a clear regulatory framework from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MGAP) that dictates consequences, such as the producer not being compensated for an animal that must be destroyed. However, he cautions against punitive measures that only target individual animals, suggesting they are not effective on their own. The emphasis remains on comprehensive regulation and common sense in defining procedures.
me van a decomisar el animal que dio positivo… el lote entero, si mandaste una tropa de cuatro camiones, la tropa entera, nadie sabe nada
From Uruguay's perspective, as represented by ARU, the fight against tick-borne diseases and associated residues is paramount. The organization views the "death of animals and residues in meat" as the two main challenges, with other issues being secondary. Ferber also advocated for greater flexibility in regulations for feedlots, allowing animals with ticks to enter, as the conditions within feedlots are not conducive to tick survival. He warned that the current "zero tick" requirement for animal movement can lead to increased product application, complicating the problem. ARU's pragmatic approach, advocating for realistic control schemes rather than the "impracticable" goal of total eradication, reflects a deep understanding of the on-the-ground realities faced by Uruguayan farmers.
el animal que dio positivo y se tuvo que destruir, el productor no lo cobra
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by El País in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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