WHO Causes Confusion Over Pork - Canadian Pork Safe

On Wednesday, the WHO issued a warning about consuming meat from pigs infected with the H1N1 virus.

The WHO said infected pigs shouldn't be used for human consumption because it is possible for flu viruses to survive the freezing process and be present in thawed meat as well as in blood

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says the warning seems unnecessary because, in Canada, animals are always screened before they enter the food supply.

Canada's agriculture minister and top veterinary officer emphasized again Wednesday that pork is safe to eat, after comments by a WHO official added to the confusion surrounding the H1N1 virus.

"Canadian pork is safe. There is no danger. Bottom line: Canadian pork is safe," Gerry Ritz said Wednesday after serving up pork sandwiches to MPs and government workers at a luncheon on Parliament Hill.

Jurgen Preugschas, president of the Canadian Pork Council, told CTV Newsnet said he was "concerned" about the WHO official's comments.

"But what most important to know is that any animal that is sick or unhealthy does not go to market," he said from Parliament Hill. "We have a great inspection system through CFIA, it is absolutely safe to eat the pork that we produce."