UK tests to reveal extent of contamination

The extent of horsemeat contamination in the EU’s processed food industry will become clearer after tomorrow, when initial results are expected in Britain of product testing ordered by the government, which has also demanded ongoing tests every three months by retailers and processors.

About 1,000 beef products per supermarket chain are being DNA tested, including lasagne, meatballs and burgers — but not most pies, soups and meat cuts.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney will request Irish processed meat companies to also carry out DNA testing. He has agreed with UK counterpart, Owen Paterson that food safety agencies in both countries work together to determine how to protect authenticity of meat ingredients.