Risk-based review of post-mortem inspection of kidneys of pigs

32 Pages

Author(s): Andrew Pointon, DH Hamilton Consulting, Andreas Kiermeier

Following on from the findings in APL Project 2015/023, this project assesses whether alternative inspection procedures for pig kidneys can provide equivalence with the standard (AS4696:2007). The technical objectives of the project are to:

- Determine the foodborne hazard and zoonotic significance of gross abnormalities of pig kidney
- Quantify the industry prevalence of gross abnormalities of kidneys, including a breakdown of prevalence by type of gross abnormality
- Quantify the role of gross abnormalities of kidneys in informing carcase disposition judgment
- Predict the effect of inspecting unenucleated kidneys by observation.

A national snapshot prevalence survey of one week’s production through the seven major abattoirs was conducted. This aimed to provide the prevalence of gross kidney abnormalities in approximately 85,000 pigs. Carcases were examined over one week/abattoir to encompass pigs from all herd sizes and production systems on a proportional basis.

Proposed alternative post-mortem inspection procedures for consideration by the AMRG follows:

Observing kidneys is consistent with previous AMRG approval for routine visual inspection of pigs based on the final report of APL Project 2015/023. That decision also provides for palpation if considered suspect or if needed to inform carcase disposition judgement.