Finland eases swine fever zone rules for grain

Finland’s Food Authority has eased restrictions on grain in the African swine fever infection zone in southeastern Finland, Yle reports. The size of the zone, which covers parts of the Kymenlaakso and South Karelia regions, remains unchanged.

The changes follow a European Commission decision on urgent measures related to African swine fever in Finland. The Food Authority found the disease in wild boar in Virolahti, in Kymenlaakso, on July 30.

Grain collected within the zone may now be fed to pigs under certain conditions. It must be stored for at least 30 days at a temperature above zero degrees Celsius and kept out of the pigs’ reach throughout that period. For use as bedding, the required storage period is 90 days.

The use of grain and other plants collected in the zone for feeding pigs had previously been completely prohibited. The rules have also been changed for transporting collected feed and plants.

Fresh meat and meat products from pigs may not be transported outside the infection zone. Previously, meat products could be moved outside the zone under certain conditions.

African swine fever is a life-threatening disease for pigs. There is no vaccine or treatment, and infected pigs die quickly.