all stages of the production, processing and distribution — any stage from and including the primary production of a food of animal origin, up to and including its storage, transport, sale or supply to the final consumer 1.

introduction — the bringing of goods into one of the territories listed in Annex I to Directive 97/78/EC for the purpose of placing them under the customs procedures referred to in Article 4(16)(a) to (f) of Council Regulation (EC) No 2913/92 of 12 October 1992 establishing the Community Customs Code(9) 2.

official veterinarian — a veterinarian qualified to act in that capacity appointed by the competent authority 3.

products of animal origin — products obtained from animals and products obtained therefrom, for human consumption, including live animals where they are prepared for such use. CHAPTER I ANIMAL HEALTH REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO ALL STAGES OF THE PRODUCTION, PROCESSING AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRODUCTS OF ANIMAL ORIGIN WITHIN THE COMMUNITY 4.