Bakery waste products linked to botulism outbreak

Waste products from a large-scale bakery used in animal feed have been linked to the recent outbreaks of botulism in cattle according to the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

The animal feed, which was withdrawn from sale, is understood to have affected three suppliers and five farms in Essex, Northamptonshire and Shropshire and resulted in the death of more than 700 cattle.

The UK Health Security Agency assessed the risk to public health and found it to be negligible as the strain was not thought to pass to humans through the food chain.  

See also: Cattle botulism cases linked to contaminated feed

Testing is underway to confirm the strains of botulism that caused the illness in cattle.

Jane Rawling, FSA head of incidents, said: “Results for samples gathered in response to an outbreak of botulism in cattle linked to animal feed received so far have confirmed the presence of toxin types C and D, which are predominantly associated with disease in animals and birds. There continues to be no indication of impact to human health.”

Under review

Ms Rawlings added that the situation is being kept under review as further results are received.

“If we identify any concerns, we’ll act quickly to safeguard the food and animal feed supply chain to protect both public and animal health and welfare,” she said. 

In a statement, the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC), which represents farm suppliers, said a disposal route for the affected feed has now been approved and it is “seeking meetings with the relevant authorities to review the incident and discuss key learnings”.

No further reports of any further farms being impacted have been received, the AIC said. The names of the parties involved is also being kept under wraps. 

Farmers Weekly understands that the affected farms are being supported by the NFU’s legal team in preparation for potential litigation.