Donkey meat found in South African burgers

Researchers say donkey, water buffalo and goat meat are being sold as beef burgers and sausages in South Africa.

A study published by the local Stellenbosch University found that over two-thirds of tested samples contained species not declared in the product label.

Researchers even found plant matter in the minced meat, burger patties, sausages and deli and dried meat.

"Our study confirms that the mislabelling of processed meats is commonplace in South Africa and not only violates food labelling regulations, but also poses economic, religious, ethical and health impacts," said animal sciences professor Louw Hoffman, in a statement on the university website.

"Unconventional species such as donkey, goat and water buffalo were also discovered in a number of products."

Hoffman says a lack of tough policing had facilitated the practice.

"Even though we have local regulations that protect consumers from being sold falsely described or inferior foodstuffs, we need these measures to be appropriately enforced," he added.

The news follows a similar meat scandal in Europe, where horsemeat has been found in so-called beef ready-made meals and burgers.

On Monday, IKEA became the latest company to withdraw products after traces of horsemeat was found in its meatballs.

Source: ABC News, 27 February 2013