March 24, 2014

US FDA introduces new online tool for reporting feed problems

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched a new online tool for producers, veterinarians and nutritionists to register complaints about suspected problems with livestock feed.

The Livestock Food Reporting portal is the latest addition to the Safety Reporting Portal, an online system designed to streamline the process of reporting product safety issues to the FDA and the National Institutes of Health. Manufacturers, distributors, retailers and public health officials at federal, state and local level are expected to continue the use of the Reportable Food section of the Safety Reporting Portal.

The FDA also encourages any parties with concerns about animal feed to file a report, including veterinarians and livestock producers. In addition to the online portal, consumer complaint coordinators from FDA's district office will continue to accept reports via phone.

The FDA's Centre for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) offers website instructions on reporting a livestock food complaint and the types of information to provide.

CVM will also notify producers to retain original feed packaging until the product is used up. The packaging contains information often needed to identify the variety of food, manufacturing plant, and production date. For products delivered in bulk, information may be included on the bill of lading, receipt, or invoice.

In addition to making ready relevant information, complainants are advised to provide results of any laboratory tests performed on product or on animals as well as storage methods, preparation, and handling.