Position Statement
15 January 2001

The dairy industry is aware that the Food Standards Agency is carrying out a three-year study investigating any link between BSE and milk.
This study was first discussed in 1998 when the Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee (SEAC) identified a number of research areas to investigate a possible link between cow and calf. The FSA is emphasising that this is purely a precautionary measure. All previous studies have shown that milk is safe. This current investigation is to prove it beyond doubt.
There is no scientific evidence that BSE can be transmitted through milk, as a number of rigorous tests prove:
· In March 1997, the ECS Scientific Veterinary Committee (SVC) completed a risk assessment for milk and milk products. Having examined all the available evidence, the committee concluded that "bovine milk can be safelyconsumed in any form by any species".
 · In April 1998, the SEAC reaffirmed its confidence in the safety of milk, following its review of the current research into BSE transmission.
· The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated publicly that "milk and dairy products are considered safe, even in countries with a high incidence of BSE. No evidence has been found from animal and human encephalopathies to suggest that milk can transmit the disease".
· The Phillips report on the BSE Inquiry, published on 26 October 2000, does not change the advice with respect to the safety of milk.
· On 31 October, the FSA stated that no milk from cows with BSE is allowed into the food chain and research has shown no infectivity in milk from BSE.
The dairy industry is reassured by the FSA's comments that "there is no evidence that BSE can be transmitted through milk. The research is purely a precaution."