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Requirements for raw materials - Mechanically separated meat (MSM)

Regulation (EC) 853/2004 defines 'Mechanically separated meat' (MSM) as the product obtained by removing meat from flesh-bearing bones after boning or from poultry carcases, using mechanical means resulting in the loss or modification of the muscle fibre structure. MSM must not be re-frozen after thawing.

The raw material used to produce MSM must comply with the requirements for fresh meat.

The following material must not be used to produce MSM:

  • for poultry - the feet, neckskin and head; and
  • for other animals - the bones of the head, feet, tails, femur, tibia, fibula, humerus, radius and ulna.