Mad Cow Disease (BSE) and Cooking: Heat Does Not Destroy Prions

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is caused by prions—infectious proteins that are highly resistant to heat, radiation, and proteolytic enzymes.

Prions survive standard cooking temperatures (boiling, frying, grilling). Therefore, cooking does not eliminate the risk of BSE transmission. Strict food safety guidelines for handling and consuming beef are essential to reduce exposure risk.