On its 25th anniversary, the British Lion Code of Practice introduced version 8, incorporating the most recent scientific and veterinary guidance, along with industry knowledge. This latest iteration has undergone updates to guarantee that the production of British Lion eggs consistently maintains the utmost standards of food safety.
The British Lion Code of Practice, which is independently audited, is considered to be the most comprehensive egg safety standard across the globe and a successful food safety scheme in the United Kingdom.
Version 8 was launched in early June 2023 to cover over 700 auditable points on various topics including Salmonella vaccination and the traceability of hens, eggs and feed. The updates involve: sampling and testing protocols, auditing and enforcement measures, rodent control and on-farm and packing centre procedures. Animal welfare standards have also been at the forefront of Version 8.
Mark Williams, British Egg Industry Council Chief Executive, said: “I’m proud to say version 8 is the most comprehensive Code ever launched, incorporating all of the latest scientific and veterinary advice to ensure the British public gets the quality, safe eggs they expect and can enjoy eating them with confidence however they like them cooked.”
Mark Williams continued: “At a time when imported eggs are being sold by retail and wholesale companies due to the current temporary supply issues, it’s important that consumers know that British eggs, produced to unparalleled food safety standards, are available.” This was made in reference to the continued presence of Italian eggs on shelves at Sainsbury’s stores.
Sterling Crew, President of the Institute of Food Science and Technology, and Chair of the Food Authenticity Network, said: “The continued and strengthened presence of the Lion Code for eggs is music to the ears of anyone involved in food safety. In my previous roles as a retailer and food manufacturer, I insisted on British Lion eggs to give me the assurance that my organisation and customers were looking for.”
Helping you apply assurance scheme standards and biosecurity
Like The British Lion Code of Practice, Livetec is also committed to protecting animal welfare standards through biosecurity measures.
Livetec’s biosecurity advisory service goes beyond compliance with recommended standards from assurance schemes, chemical companies, or pharma to protect livestock. We offer a personalised approach tailored to your specific needs. Our expert team provides actionable recommendations to ensure your poultry and other animals are protected from contacting avian influenza and other harmful pathogens.
With their profound expertise in the Lion Code and Red Tractor assurance schemes, our well-informed biosecurity team excels at skillfully navigating them. We provide biosecurity services that enable you to effortlessly fulfil the requirements of these assurance schemes and protect your poultry from deadly diseases.
For more information, contact the Livetec Biosecurity Advisory Service team here.
