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Shellfish

Answer

Although animal protein contained in scallop shells does not in itself carry a risk of transmitting transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) to animals, under Regulation (EC) No. 999/2001, its feeding to ruminant animals (such as cattle, goats or sheep) is prohibited to address the possibility of its masking the presence of mammalian material which may carry a TSE risk. Scallop shells (excluding animal protein) are not covered by the TSE regulation but as an animal by-product (ABP), shells from shellfish (including scallops, crabs and lobsters) must be disposed of in accordance with the animal by-products Regulation (EC) No.1774/2002, which lays down the rules on the use, treatment, handling and disposal of ABPs in order to protect public and animal health. Shells which are derived from raw shellfish must be recovered or disposed of in certain ways, for example by incineration, rendering, or processed in an in-vessel composting or biogas plant. Although shells derived from cooked shellfish can go for disposal to landfill, in accordance with the EU landfill directive, this is the least sustainable option. It is a commercial matter for those disposing of such waste to decide which is the most cost effective means. Shells from shellfish can also be used to produce organic fertiliser and soil improvers subject to the rules contained in Commission Regulation 181/2006, which allows certain categories of ABPs, after being processed, to be used as organic fertiliser or soil improvers. This was formulated in consideration of a number of scientific opinions from the relevant EU scientific committee to ensure there was minimal risk to public and animal health. These are available on the following website: www.europa.eu.int/comm/food/fs/sc/ssc/outcome–en.html. Organic fertilisers and soil improvers that are still considered to be waste may be spread to land in accordance with the Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994 (as amended). Paragraph 7A of Schedule 3 to the 1994 regulations allows shells from shellfish processing to be spread to land for agricultural benefit, or ecological improvement, subject to certain conditions. The Environment Agency needs to be notified of the intention to use the exemption.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

6354; 683 c140WA

Session

2005-06

Subjects

Animal feed Health hazards EU law Disease control Waste disposal Shellfish Transmissible encephalopathies

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk