Northern Cyprus: Mad Cow Disease Concerns Trigger Meat Purchase Warnings

Following a death in northern Cyprus due to bovine spongiform encephalopathy, also known as "mad cow disease," the Turkish Cypriot "chamber of food engineers" is warning the public to purchase meat and meat products only from officially inspected butchers and licensed businesses.

According to a statement, tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, spleen, and small intestine should not be consumed. The "chamber" called on the "authorities" to implement strict veterinary controls on meat imports and domestic slaughterhouses.

Beste Öymen, "president" of the "chamber," stated that the disease is fatal in cattle and affects the brain and nervous system, adding that the prions that cause the disease are extremely resistant to heat and cooking.

Source: ΚΥΠΕ