Russia is considering an import ban of all meat and meat products from Brazil, that are produced with the use of ractopamine (a feed additive that stimulates the growth of muscle tissue). The use of this drug is prohibited in Russia and the Customs Union.

According to Alex Shcheglov, the head of the Russian delegation of veterinary specialists (Rosselkhoznadzor), for Bryansk and Smolensk regions, this question was raised during a meeting with Deputy Secretary of Foreign Relations Ministry of Agriculture of Brazil, Lino Kolseroy.

«We have stated that, in spite of the existing agreements in the veterinary and phytosanitary fields which provide transparency in the mutual relations, Brazil did not inform us about the use of ractopamine in growing animals», Scheglov said. «Thus it is possible that in the territory of the Customs Union potentially dangerous meat products could be supplied».

The head of the Russian delegation told their Brazilian colleagues that the situation would be reported to the Rosselkhoznadzor board. Experts will also make proposals to suspend the shipment of livestock production in Russia from all enterprises in Brazil that cannot provide sufficient guaranties that they are not using ractopamine.

«It is a logical step within the framework of harmonization of our legislation with the EU, which stopped the importation of such products,» he said. He also pointed out that the use of ractopamine in growing animals should be scientifically justified. «We have not received such studies from Brazilian colleagues».

«We also have a number of other complaints (about Brazilian producers) which are mostly relating to the systematic violations of veterinary-sanitary rules».

«In particular it is the lack of awareness of Brazilian specialists, even at the central office of the Ministry of Agriculture, considering the animal health requirements that apply to products sent to the Customs Union» - Shcheglov said.

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