[Taxus baccata poisoning in lambs and meat inspection]

Abstract

Yew (Taxus baccata) poisoning in lambs: meat control twenty-two poisoned lambs were slaughtered at a special slaughterhouse. Yew intoxication was diagnosed on the basis of the anamnesis and the presence of yew needles in the rumen. Data from the literature concerning the toxicity of yew and some (traditional) uses of yew are reported. The symptoms and post-mortem findings in animals and humans are discussed, together with the poorly effective treatment of yew poisoning and preventative measures. The outcome of the meat inspection is explained on the basis of current and new regulations (Regulations and Guidelines Governing the Inspection of Meat 91/497/EEG). A reliable and recognized method for the detection of taxins is required.