A major development in Australia could reshape how countries around the world respond to future outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Researchers there have created the world’s first biodegradable mRNA vaccine for FMD, a virus that devastated the UK livestock sector in 2001 and still poses a major threat to meat and livestock supply chains. Early trials in Germany showed strong protection and no viral shedding in vaccinated cattle.
While the vaccine is still undergoing regulatory approval in Australia, its success could open the door to faster, safer, and more scalable protection methods for the UK. Crucially, it’s stable at room temperature which is a game-changer for outbreak response logistics.
We are the UKs largest trade body for the meat industry and provide expert advice on trade issues, bespoke technical advice and access to government policy makers
We are proud to count businesses of all sizes and specialties as members. They range from small, family run abattoirs serving local customers to the largest meat processing companies responsible for supplying some of our best-loved brands to shops and supermarkets.
We are further strengthened by our associate Members who work in industries that support and supply our meat processing companies.
We are the voice of the British meat industry.
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