New Rules for Animal By-Product Transport: Key Changes Ahead!

The transport of animal by-products (materials derived from animals but not intended for human consumption – such as slaughterhouse residues, spoiled products, or even animal-derived fertilizers) is a sector of critical importance for public health and the environment. In this context, a new regulatory act is expected to significantly change the landscape, introducing stricter rules and procedures.

This refers to Decision No. 3/2026, which, as announced, will come into full force on March 28, 2026. This regulation aims to improve the transport conditions for these materials, ensuring traceability, hygiene, and safety at all stages, from production to final disposal or processing.

Essentially, the new decision establishes a framework that demands greater attention and compliance from all involved parties. It seeks to minimize contamination risks, disease spread, and environmental impacts, which translates into new obligations for businesses.

What does this mean for businesses?

The implementation of this decision will have an immediate and significant impact on a wide range of businesses. Primarily, all units that produce, collect, transport, or process animal by-products are affected. These include livestock farms, slaughterhouses, fish farms, food industries, feed production units, waste collection and transport companies, as well as incineration or composting facilities.

Key changes businesses should expect include:

• Stricter Transport Requirements: New specifications will be introduced for transport vehicles, possibly requiring specialized equipment, better sealing, and more intensive disinfection.
• Enhanced Accompanying Documents: Each consignment of animal by-products must be accompanied by more detailed documents, certifying the origin, material category, destination, and route. The goal is full traceability.
• Staff Training: Personnel involved in loading, unloading, and transport must receive appropriate training on hygiene and safety procedures.
• Fines and Penalties: Non-compliance with the new rules will incur severe fines and potentially other penalties, as the decision emphasizes intensified controls.

It is clear that businesses will need to adapt to the new requirements in a timely manner, potentially upgrading their infrastructure and procedures. Investing in compliance is not merely a legal obligation but also a way to safeguard their reputation and the sustainability of their operations, by enhancing safety and market confidence.

The decision bears the ADA (internet publication code) ΕΓ77ΟΛΕ3-ΖΤ7 and is available on Diavgeia (the Greek government's online transparency program for publishing state acts and decisions).