The FASFC in Belgium has published a new circular on the consequences of the renewed waste framework directive 2008/98/EC for animal feed.
As a result of changes, 'waste' can no longer be used in animal feed. Companies that have food waste and dispose of it for the processing of animal feed must not dispose of it as 'waste' but as animal feed. This is also how it should be stated on the trade form.
Is it then possible to continue using "waste" in the animal feed sector? Yes, this remains possible. But the products should just no longer be considered waste, even temporarily. They must have a legal status covered by food chain legislation.
Even in slaughterhouses where animal by-products are generated including category 3 material (CAT3), these must be disposed of as animal feed. These include bones, fat, trimmings, legs and organs. Some products can be used for human consumption such as liver for liver sausage and calf thymus for organ meat. Animal by-products not used for human consumption are covered by Regulations 1069/2009 and 142/2011. These animal by-products can be used for animal feed such as bull rinds, dried pigs ears and raw meat for dogs and cats.
Regulation 142/2011 sets strict guidelines for the use of animal feed. The legislation was tightened last year with strict bacteriological guidelines. For example, companies are required to carry out bacteriological checks for this on enterobacteriaceae and Salmonella.
But how should the flows run? For example, if you categorise animal by-products as 'waste' you are no longer allowed to put them into the animal feed circuit. The FASFC's new circular clearly explains this.
Labelling and trade forms should clearly indicate which product is concerned.
Example streams
Source: Circular on streams valorised as animal feed: ban on use of waste, new legal status of these products. Date: 6-09-2024.
