South Korea has lifted its ban on the animal feed additive zilpaterol in beef. That could open the door to imports containing the product as well as domestic use. Minnesota Cattlemen’s Association President Dar Geiss says the Koreans made the proper decision and the lifting of the ban will benefit both countries.
While South Korea has lifted their ban, both China and the European Union continue to ban zilpaterol. Geiss says South Korea’s move may spur both China and the E.U. to rethink their positions on the additive and move to further opening of beef trade.
Zilpaterol is used to aid growth in the weeks before animals are slaughtered.
Geiss says another benefit of the South Korean opening is it gives the U.S. a leg up on its competition for that market from the Australians and New Zealanders.
A South Korean food ministry official confirms that imports of beef with one part per billion will be allowed as of late last month.