Recycling of animal by-products within the food chain

Abstract

Animal by-products (ABPs) are entire animal bodies, parts of animals, products of animal origin or other products obtained from animals that are not fit or intended for human consumption. They must be dealt with in accordance with strict regulations designed to prevent harm to people, animals and the environment. ABPs are categorised by the risks they pose and the methods used to deal with them. Category 3 are parts of slaughtered animals, which are fit for human consumption but are not intended for human consumption, that can be rendered into processed animal protein (PAP) and re-used as an ingredient in animal feed. From the economic and ecological point of view, as well as for the sustainability discussion, this approach becomes increasingly important.