BBC probe finds pubs' 'local' beef mislabelled

Pubs may face tighter regulations on labelling meat after a BBC investigation showed beef being mislabelled as 'local' by pubs and restaurants in the South-West.

A total of eight out of 40 samples analysed contained traces of DNA from zebu cattle. Common in Africa and South America, zebu are often crossbred with European breeds such as Aberdeen Angus to allow herds to thrive in arid climates.

The investigation echoes last year's 'Undercover Mum' programme shown on ITV, which found zebu DNA in steaks sold at a number of pub chains.

The BBC has drawn attention to what it calls a 'legal loophole' which allows processed meals such as steak pie to be described as local even if some ingredients come from abroad.

Responding to the BBC investigation, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) indicated that it is considering tighter laws.

FSA spokeswoman Sarah Appleby said: "The labelling regulations are really complicated, especially for pre-packed, pre-prepared food, and I think this is an area where we could provide more information for consumers."

Rob Mcfarlane, director of meat and poultry at Brakes-owned Prime Meats, said pubs need to ensure they can trust their meat suppliers, but also should "take ownership" of the issue by asking the right questions. "Sometimes a member of staff will tell customers meat is local because it comes from the butcher down the road - but that doesn't mean anything."

Under the Beef Labelling Regulations, meat should clearly show where it was slaughtered, cut and packed - "if it doesn't, it's illegal."

For additional reassurance, pubs should look for independent accreditation such as the Red Tractor, EBLEX and QMS marks. "All of these schemes are there for a reason - they provide additional security," said Mcfarlane.