Decree No. 88/026: Prevention and Surveillance Measures for Biological and Veterinary Drug Residues

Uruguay's Decree No. 88/026 updates and strengthens prevention, surveillance, investigation and control measures applicable to residues of veterinary medicines, pesticides and environmental contaminants detected in products of animal origin and in animal tissues and fluids. The measure is adopted within the National Biological Residues Programme and assigns the General Directorate of Livestock Services (DGSG) of the Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries (MGAP) responsibility for investigating agricultural holdings, slaughter establishments and processing facilities for products of animal origin when non-compliant results are detected. DGSG may impose preventive sanitary restrictions, carry out inspections, collect and analyze samples from animals, products and by-products of animal origin, feed, forage and veterinary products, and seize unauthorized or unregistered veterinary products. Holdings of origin of animals with prohibited compounds or residues exceeding maximum permitted limits may be preventively restricted from moving animals to slaughter through the National Livestock Information System (SNIG). Establishments associated with non-compliant findings are subject to targeted controls and corrective and preventive actions under official supervision. The Decree provides for sanctions in cases of non-compliance, seeks to ensure food safety and preserve access to destination markets for products of animal origin, and repeals Decree No. 576/009 of December 15, 2009.