A NATIONAL reporting scheme for pigs is now in play, bringing the $1.3 billion pork industry into line with the cattle, sheep and goat industries.
Agriculture Minister David Littleproud welcomed mandatory reporting of all pig movements under the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS), which will be introduced by all state and territory governments from this week.
The NLIS for pork, known as PigPass, uses ear tags or tattoos to identify animals. All pig movements onto farms, saleyards, showgrounds and abattoirs are documented in a database using a National Vendor Declaration. This database is used by state and territory governments to trace livestock in an emergency.
“Strong traceability is a key part of a strong biosecurity system,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Pigpass means animals can be identified quickly and allows the property of birth and residence to be easily located if there were ever a food safety issue or exotic disease outbreak.
“This would be important if Australia had say a foot and mouth disease outbreak. It would help find the source of disease and stop its spread.
“PigPass will help Australia keep its excellent reputation for delivering high quality and safe produce.”
There are more than 1400 pork farms across Australia.
CLICK HERE for more information about PigPass or call Australian Pork Limited on 1800 001 458.