European Communities (Animal Nutrition Inspections) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 238 of 2003).

These Regulations give effect to Council Directive 95/53/EC as amended. They lay down conditions and arrangements for official inspections in the field of animal nutrition. They apply to animal feeds and any substances used in animal nutrition. Inspections may take place at any stage of: (a) production, manufacture or marketing, (b) importation, (c) exportation, (d) transit through the State, or (e) use. Where a sample is taken, it shall be taken and dealt with in accordance with the Annex to Commission Directive 76/371/EEC. A person who is importing a product shall give notice to the Minister, in a form approved by the Minister, at least 5 working days prior to the importation of the product. The Minister may issue directions relating to imported product in respect of a product which does not comply with a provision listed in the definition of inspections (reg. 7). Where the Minister has information leading him or her to suspect an infringement of any law in the field of animal nutrition, checks may be carried out during the transportation of the product. Where a person, who manufactures, imports into Community territory or markets products, is aware that a product: (a) poses serious risk to human health, animal health or to the environment; or (b) exceeds the maximum levels set out in the Section A of Annex II to Directive 1999/29/EC he or she shall notify the Minister immediately.