Animal feed manufacturers have been reminded of the need to observe strict rules regarding food hygiene.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) wants to ensure that all organisations involved in production and use of animal feed observe the regulations regarding safe storage, transport and handling of the foodstuff.
Feed business, from those that farm the crops to companies that make the animal feed and the farmers that nourish their animals with it, are expected to take every precaution to prevent contamination and spoilage.
"In practical terms, this means farmers and growers must apply simple hygiene procedures to make sure hazards are controlled appropriately," the FSA said in its latest guidance notes.
Feed manufacturers have recently been hit by the escalating price of crops, with fears over a global wheat shortage sparking panic buying from western importing nations.
Wheat production has been hit in recent months by floods in Queensland, Australia and a severe drought in parts of China.
Typical Guttridge equipment used in the animal feed industry includes: elevators – conveyors – chain conveyors
