BAI MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 14, S. 2004

: The main purpose is to institute precautionary measures to prevent the entry of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) contaminated beef tallow from the USA into the Philippines.
: The implementation was prompted by a reported case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), also known as Mad Cow Disease, in the USA.
: BSE, commonly known as Mad Cow Disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative disease in cattle that can be transmitted to humans through consumption of contaminated meat products.
: The new variant of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (nvCJD or vCJD) is associated with the consumption of BSE-affected animals.
: The order regulates the importation of beef tallow originating from the USA.
: The beef tallow must be protein-free with a maximum level of insoluble impurities of 0.15% in weight and must be certified by the USDA or a third party certification company accredited by the Philippine Department of Agriculture.
: The confiscation of non-compliant shipments is the responsibility of all Department of Agriculture (DA) Quarantine Inspectors/Officers at major sea and air ports.
: All shipments not complying with the specified conditions shall be confiscated by DA Quarantine Inspectors/Officers.
: The order took effect immediately upon its adoption on March 8, 2004.