The Animal Remedies Board (ARB) considered issues surrounding the licensing of
somatotropins earlier this year. After deliberation, the decision was made to defer
licensing until the matter had been referred to the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee
(AWAC). AWAC was asked to consider any animal welfare issues associated with the use of
somatotropins under New Zealand farming conditions, and make recommendations on whether,
from an animal welfare perspective, somatotropins should be licensed in New Zealand.
AWAC’s recommendations will be tabled and discussed at the next ARB meeting in
October. The Board will consider the potential impact somatotropin use may have on trade
in primary produce, human health and safety, and the environment, as well as animal
welfare, when establishing its policy. Once established, the policy will be reported in AgVetLink.
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