Contaminants in feed for food-producing animals

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and food borne microbial infections, dioxin contaminated animal products, the presence of veterinary drug residues, microbial resistance to antibiotics, mycotoxins, agricultural and industrial chemicals, etc. are serious concerns for the food industry in many countries. Since the direct links between feed safety and safety of foods of animal origin are obvious, feed production and manufacture should be considered as an integral part of the food production chain. Industry is responsible for the quality and safety of food and feed that is produced. This paper is a brief review of some microorganisms as source of infections for farm animals that could result in human illnesses. These include Salmonella enterica, Bacillus anthracis, Toxoplasma gondii, Trichinella spiralis, prions, Listeria monocytogenes, EHEC, Campylobacter, Clostridium botulinum, Hog Cholera virus, Foot and Mouth Disease virus, etc. as well as other contaminants associated with animal feed such as mycotoxins, veterinary drugs, dioxins and PCB and Genetically Modified Organisms.