IFA calls for feed-ingredient license
It followed confirmation by the Department of Agriculture and Food that samples of a feed material taken recently at two import stores were found on analysis to contain traces of terrestrial bone.
The department identified the feed material as sugar beet pulp imported from Germany via Rotterdam on two separate shipments between October 18 and October 22.
It said the potential danger to animal health and to human health is negligible due to the successful recall of the pulp and the animal feed involved.
Noting the full co-operation of the importer and the industry, it said it is continuing to monitor and evaluate the situation.
IFA deputy president Ruaidhri Deasy said that all imported feed ingredients should be sampled and approved before being placed on the market.
“It is unacceptable that while Irish farmers are subjected to rigorous inspection and traceability rules, the same rules do not apply to the major commodity importers and traders.
“No imported feed ingredients should be placed on the open market prior to rigorous sampling,” he said.
Labour Party spokesperson Dr Mary Upton TD said any traces of animal bone are not acceptable in animal feed and are forbidden.
She urged Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan to step up inspections of animal feed imports.
