Animal By-Products (ABP) Handling & Disposal Policy

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1. Purpose

This policy sets out Murzo Group’s approach to the identification, handling, storage, transport, and disposal of animal by-products (ABPs) arising from insect-related activities.

Its objectives are to:

  • Reduce environmental, biosecurity, and regulatory risk
  • Support compliance with applicable UK and EU animal by-products frameworks
  • Ensure waste streams are managed responsibly and lawfully
  • Clearly allocate responsibility across operators and contractors

This policy forms part of Murzo Group’s insect operations and biosecurity governance framework.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • Dead insects
  • Insect by-products (including frass where applicable)
  • Contaminated substrates
  • Processing residues
  • Packaging or materials contaminated with biological matter

It applies to facilities designed, operated, or advised on by Murzo Group, and to employees, contractors, and authorised third parties.

3. Regulatory Context

Murzo Group recognises that:

  • Certain insect-derived materials may fall within animal by-products legislation
  • Classification and disposal requirements vary by jurisdiction and use
  • Local competent authorities determine final regulatory interpretation

Murzo Group does not act as a regulatory authority and does not certify ABP compliance.

4. Identification & Classification

Where applicable:

  • Waste streams should be identified and categorised
  • ABPs should be segregated from non-biological waste
  • High-risk materials should be clearly marked and isolated

Final responsibility for classification rests with the operator generating the material.

5. Handling & Storage

ABPs should be:

  • Handled in a manner that prevents leakage, contamination, or pest access
  • Stored in designated, secure containers
  • Kept separate from live insects, feed, and food products
  • Managed to minimise odour, degradation, and exposure

Storage duration should be proportionate and lawful.

6. Transport & Disposal

Where removal is required:

  • Only authorised or appropriately permitted waste contractors should be used
  • Transport documentation may be retained where required
  • Disposal routes should be consistent with applicable law

Murzo Group does not assume responsibility for failures by third-party disposal contractors beyond contractual scope.

7. Cross-Contamination Prevention

Facilities should implement reasonable measures to:

  • Prevent ABPs entering production areas
  • Avoid cross-contamination of substrates or products
  • Maintain hygiene controls in ABP handling zones

8. Records & Traceability

Where appropriate, records may include:

  • Waste type and quantity
  • Date of removal
  • Contractor details
  • Disposal method

Murzo Group does not mandate specific record formats unless contractually agreed.

9. Incident Management

In the event of spillage, improper disposal, or containment failure:

  • Reasonable steps should be taken to limit impact
  • Affected materials may be isolated
  • Relevant parties may be notified where required

Murzo Group does not assume regulatory reporting obligations unless expressly agreed.

10. Legal Position & Limitations

This policy does not guarantee regulatory acceptance of disposal methods, does not replace statutory obligations of operators, and does not create contractual obligations unless expressly incorporated.

Nothing in this policy excludes liability that cannot be lawfully excluded.

Commitment Statement

Murzo Group recognises the importance of responsible animal by-product handling in insect operations. Through proportionate controls and lawful disposal practices, we seek to reduce risk while protecting environmental and public health.

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