Farmers who mistakenly present older cattle for use in the food chain are not only risking prosecution but putting the whole of the UK industry's future export prospects in peril.
The warning comes from the English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX) following news that since changes to the Over Thirty Month rule in November last year 41 animals born prior to August 1996 have been presented for food chain use.
Breaches of the rules could leave a producer at risk of a heavy fine.
Richard Ali, EBLEX Chief Executive, said: "The last thing we want to see is any of our producers facing prosecution for making this kind of mistake so I would urge them to take great care checking passport details - especially with older animals.
"Were any of these animals to get into to food chain - and none have to date
- it could cause us great difficulty in getting the regulations lifted which have stopped our exports to Europe for so long.
"I am sure no farmer would want to feel responsible for causing this sort of damage to the whole industry."
