Semicarbazide feeding trials to determine organ residue levels

Nitrofurazone is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial and antiparasitic drug that is not permitted to be used to treat livestock. Semicarbazide (SEM) is one metabolite of nitrofurazone and is considered to be an indicator of illegal use of nitrofuazone treatment of livestock. Korea has a zero tolerance for SEM residues and detections in Australian exports of beef feet and nuchal ligament and sheep feet have led to the suspension of the processors and cold stores concerned. DAFF has asked that feeding trials be conducted to support ongoing regulatory discussions with Korea.