Ensuring pig feed safety

This chapter covers the safety of feed for pigs. Reducing the risk of biological hazards in feed manufacturing facilities is an important part of the complete biosecurity plan for livestock producers. Research in the past several years has demonstrated the ability of pathogens to survive in feed and feed ingredients. Therefore, making it important for feed mills to consider having a feed biosecurity plan. This chapter begins with an overview of the pathogens of concern for feed-based transmission, including prions and parasites, bacteria, and viruses. Next, feed contamination and its prevention are considered, covering: ingredient sourcing, receiving and loadout practices, zones in the mill, and employee training. A section on mitigation of pathogens in feed is also included, covering point-in-time mitigation strategies and those with residual effects. Finally, feed mill decontamination is discussed.