Tests on Halal products followed horsemeat scandal

The issue only came to light after the authority decided to carry out its own proactive tests on food contamination in the wake of the horse meat scandal. WCC officers took seven samples in total from three schools in the week beginning 25th February. These tests were carried out on our own initiative and not carried out as the result of any specific concerns about school food standards.

The testing involved analysis for the presence of DNA from beef, lamb, pork, chicken, turkey, goat and horse.

All tests proved negative for horse DNA. However, a preliminary report was received on Friday 8th March which suggested pig DNA could be present in the Halal chicken sausages range. The result was found in one sample taken at a Westminster primary school.

A further round of tests today confirmed the preliminary findings.