The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has recommended that the government in the UK shall stop bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) testing as it is not longer required as other safety measures are in place to avoid any spread of the brain disease.

The BSE testing regime was introduced amid widespread fears over the possible spread of the brain disease. However, the authority said that there are other measures like the removal of the specified risk material at slaughter and banning protein in cattle feed are enough to protect customers and there is no need to continue with the BSE testing regime.

The testing is likely to continue on animals that die for reasons other than for consumption. The beef industry has welcomed the decision to remove compulsory testing of older cattle after a period of 16 years since it was introduced in the country.

Lord Rooker, chairman of the FSA, said, "The FSA is here to protect the public and, with no new BSE cases for more than three years, we believe the decision to stop this particular testing requirement is a proportionate measure."

The FDA recommendation comes after a proposal in the European Commission asked for allowing some member states to stop testing on cattle.