Is it illegal to use fresh pig's or beef blood to make black puddings?

No. It is not illegal to use fresh blood when making black pudding. Dried blood is more commonly used by manufacturers of large quantities of black pudding since fresh blood is a perishable product which is more difficult to store and handle than dried blood. Using dried blood is more convenient for larger operators and can ensure consistency.

If fresh blood is used it needs to be sourced from an approved premises where it has been harvested and stored hygienically. The risks need to be assessed and procedures implemented to control these risks. You will have to demonstrate to your inspector that what you are doing is safe and hygienic.

Read more in our factsheet Harvesting Blood for Making Black Pudding