Scientists discuss MAP control in milk

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) is to propose a strategy this week for the control of Mycobacterium avium subsp. Paratuberculosis (MAP) in milk.

MAP is a bacterium that is known to cause a chronic gastrointestinal infection called Johne's disease in cattle and other ruminants. It is also implicated in Crohn's disease in humans, a chronic bowel inflammation condition.

A study commissioned by the FSA found that MAP was present in around 2 per cent of pasteurised milk. Following a strategic review the FSA proposes that the entire milk production chain be overhauled to reduce the risk of contamination. These proposals include advising farmers on how to control MAP, promoting good milking practices, and recommending that pasteurisation be carried out for more than 25 seconds.

"It is right given the current uncertainty over a possible link between MAP and Crohn's disease that the Agency should take steps to reduce the chances of people ingesting this organism in milk,"​ said Jon Bell, head of the Food Safety Policy Group at the FSA. "This is a precautionary measure and our advice is that there is no need for consumers to reduce their consumption of milk or dairy products."​Consumers and other interested parties in the UK will have the opportunity to discuss the strategy this week.