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Removal of Bovine Vertebral Column in Butchers' Shops

The EC has decided to lift the ban on the export of beef from the UK. As a consequence, the age at which bovine vertebral column (VC) has to be removed as Specified Risk Material (SRM), has been lowered from the 30 months that previously applied in the UK to the 24 months that applies in other Member States. This is to ensure harmonisation of controls across the EU, rather than a response to any perceived increase in the level of risk.

The Food Standards Agency agreed to allow the removal of VC from cattle aged 24-30 months in authorised butcher shops. This should have helped to minimise any adverse impact that the change in age limit would have on specialist producers and butchers. All approved cutting plants are also able to remove VC from carcases of this age group of cattle.

How to apply for an authorisation

If you wish to remove bovine vertebral column from carcases of animals that were aged between 24 - 30 months at slaughter, you will need to apply for authorisation. Please see the downloads on the right of this page, which include background information and relevant forms.

Please read the Guide then, if appropriate, complete and sign the application and a Required Method of Operation (RMOP). An example RMOP is provided; it suggests the procedures you need to follow to ensure that you comply with the appropriate legislation. The application form and RMOP should be returned to us.

On receipt, we will issue an authorisation, if you meet the requirements of the Regulations. A site visit will not normally be required. We will maintain a register of authorised butchers.

You should note that vertebral column from 24 - 30 months old animals must be treated as SRM. Accordingly, once removed it must be stored, stained and disposed of as a Category 1 animal by-product. This means you will have to store it safely on your premises prior to collection by an approved collector, and disposal at an approved renderer or incinerator. Please see the downloads on the right of this page for a Movement Form.