The role of fat processing and rendering in the European Union animal production industry

This paper describes fat processing and rendering systems as it relates to the activities of the European Fat Processors and Renderers Association (EFPRA). The paper is laid out in sections. Firstly a general section deals with all common aspects relating to the activities of EFPRAmembers. Secondly, specific issues are discussed with regard to a) fat processing, b) animal by-products not intended for human consumption. Finally, a summary is given, which concludes that given the state of science today ; a) the activities of EFPRAmembers are vital to the sustainable operation of the animal livestock-food chain and to the environment ; b) the products from the industry may be regarded as safe if the following standards are applied safe sourcing, safe processing, safe use ; c) the application of these principles will allow the re-entry of certain products manufactured by EFPRA members into the food chain.