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VMD calls for 10-year transition period on zinc oxide
piglet
The National Pig Association has opposed an outright ban, arguing that the benefits of zinc oxide to piglet health far outweigh any environmental risk.
National Pig Association continues to oppose a ban 

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is calling for a 10-year transition period if zinc oxide is banned in piglet feed.

The EU Committee for Medicinal Products for Veterinary Use (CVMP) is currently re-evaluating its opinion after it recommended banning products containing zinc oxide that are administered by mouth to food-producing species.

A final announcement on the decision is due on March 16, when the European Commission will decide whether to adopt the opinion of the CVMP

Across the EU, farmers use zinc oxide to prevent and control post-weaning diarrhoea and bowel oedema in piglets. An estimated 70-90 per cent of starter diets in the UK contain zinc oxide at therapeutic levels.

The National Pig Association has opposed an outright ban, arguing that the benefits of zinc oxide to piglet health far outweigh any environmental risk. But the industry has accepted that a sensible contingency plan must be in place should the worst happen.

Speaking on Monday, the VMD said: “The VMD has been in consultation with stakeholders to compile evidence to support a request for a 10-year transition period if the CVMP opinion remains negative and is adopted by the Commission. We have submitted this evidence to the Commission today.”

Echoing this call, the NPA claims that it would take a decade to bring viable alternatives to market, deliver sustainable reductions in antibiotic use, achieve a stable outlook post-Brexit and for pig producers to invest in new, more hygienic buildings.

“We are pleased the VMD is making the case for a 10-year transition period, which we feel would be needed given the potentially damaging impact on piglet health and farm profitability from banning zinc oxide, let alone the inevitable rise in antibiotic use,” said NPA chief executive Zoe Davies.

“But we continue to oppose the recommendation for a ban full stop. It is simply not justified by the evidence and appears to be politically driven.”

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.