As of 2025, Canada has updated its BSE policies to align with the World Organisation for Animal Health's (WOAH) revised standards. These changes are driven by the dramatic decline in global cases of BSE and increased knowledge on the disease. These updates also help reduce the impact of BSE investigations on farms, as well as at abattoirs, rendering facilities and feed mills.
Here's what has changed
No minimum number of animals tested
Before: Canada tested approximately 30,000 cattle each year to show the effectiveness of our control measures and to comply with international standards.
Now: the focus is on making sure producers and veterinarians can identify all suitable cattle based on specific criteria, regardless of the number of animals. These animals are called BSE surveillance candidates.
BSE suspects are no longer found in the field
Before: BSE was suspected based on signs of neurological problems in cattle, which could lead to on-site investigations, quarantines or recalls.
Now: BSE is only suspected after laboratory tests are completed on sampled animals, minimizing business disruptions.
Cohort animals no longer euthanized
Before: animals born in the same year or fed the same feed as a confirmed BSE case were required to be euthanized.
Now: if BSE is confirmed in an animal, international standards no longer require animals born in the same year or fed the same feed to be euthanized.
Revised reporting to international officials
For classical BSE in domestic cattle born after 2007: Canada must submit a detailed report to WOAH within 90 days of confirming the case.
For all other cases: reporting is needed with no additional investigation.
What to expect during a BSE investigation
If a BSE suspect is found through laboratory testing, here is what happens:
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) initial contact
A CFIA veterinarian will confirm the animal's identity and verify that the infected carcass and any possibly contaminated materials were disposed of properly using methods such as incineration or deep burial. On-farm burial may be an option if it complies with local waste management rules.
No further disease control actions, such as quarantines, will be applied.
BSE confirmation
For classical BSE in domestic cattle born after 2007: we will investigate the birth farm and check feed records to see where the animal might have been infected.
For atypical BSE: no investigation of feed or other animals is needed because this type of BSE is not related to feed contamination.
With more knowledge on this disease, these updates are now proportionate to the level of risk. While there are continued measures to prevent the introduction and spread of BSE in Canada, these updated standards help to reduce the impacts on farms and related industries should a case of BSE be suspected or confirmed.
Additional information
For more information about Canada's updated BSE management approach, visit Canada's approach to managing BSE risks. If you have questions, contact your local CFIA office for assistance.