The Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (England) Regulations 2018

Removal of spinal cord from ovine and caprine animals

7.—(1) Other than for the purposes of veterinary or scientific examination, removal of the spinal cord, or any part of it, from an ovine or caprine animal—

(a) aged over 12 months at slaughter, or

(b) that has one or more permanent incisors erupted through the gum,

must take place in accordance with sub-paragraph (2).

(2) Acceptable methods of removal are—

(a) longitudinally splitting the whole vertebral column;

(b) removing a longitudinal section of the whole vertebral column including the spinal cord;

(c) an alternative method approved in accordance with sub-paragraph (3).

(3) The Agency may approve an alternative method of removal at a specified holding provided that the occupier demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Agency that—

(a) the method is appropriate to achieve the objectives of the EU TSE Regulation,

(b) the equipment used to carry out the removal is fully effective, and

(c) the persons using the equipment are properly trained and skilled in its use and maintenance.