Current status
The IOM (Isle of Man) and Guernsey do not have BSE NR (Negligible Risk) status; they are currently classed as UR (Undetermined Risk). Unlike the rest of the UK (which is NR), cattle from IOM and Guernsey must be treated as Controlled/Undetermined Risk for their entire life; no GB residency period applies.
This means that slaughter and processing requirements are different.
These cattle must be segregated and processed following (EU) 999/2001 rules for CR/UR areas, meaning processors are not obligated to accept UR cattle; it is a commercial decision. Keepers of cattle that have originated in the IOM or Guernsey must confirm that the processor is willing to accept the cattle before moving the cattle to slaughter.
Products from IOM/Guernsey cattle remain eligible for export, provided segregation and processing rules are followed.
IOM and Guernsey are applying for NR status, but the process will take at least 12 months.
Background
- GB (England, Wales, Scotland) achieved BSE NR status on 29 May 2025.
- With NR status, some tissues previously considered SRM (specified risk material) under CR rules are no longer SRM for GB-born cattle, increasing what can enter the food chain
- From 24 November 2025, GB establishments can export bovine products using NR-based SRM controls.
Exceptions
- Cattle from non-NR regions (including IOM and Guernsey) still require full SRM removal per CR/UR rules.
- Identification ear tag prefixes:
- UK 01 = Isle of Man
- UK 02 = Guernsey
