Scotland along with England, and Wales were recently recognised as BSE Negligible Risk (NR) status by the WOAH and the EU. Northern Ireland and Jersey achieved BSE NR status in 2017 and 2020 respectively. However, the Isle of Man and Guernsey do not currently have BSE NR status but are intending to apply for it.
There are currently 460 Isle of Man cattle in Scotland on 59 farms. There are also a number of cattle from the Isle of Man and Guernsey on English, and Welsh farms. These animals and their carcases require a different dressing procedure to NR cattle.
The Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers (SAMW) have confirmed that none of their members have said they will not accept cattle from the Isle of Man. What they have pointed out is that these cattle will require to be dealt with separately from NR cattle. This adds complication and potential costs for the abattoir in handling these cattle. Keepers that have Isle of Man cattle should speak to their chosen abattoir first before consigning animals.
For more detailed information please refer to the information note that was sent out by Defra:
11/12/2025 BSE Risk status: Cattle from Guernsey and Isle of Man - Industry briefing