September 22, 1998
FDA classifies poultry feed recall as Class I
The Food and Drug Administration has classified as Class I a recall on 14,000 tons of poultry feed produced by Blue Seal Feeds, Inc., headquartered in Londonderry, NH. FDA investigators found that the feed did not contain the essential ingredient salt, even though a minimum level was specified on the products’ labels.
FDA investigators sampled feed made from the company’s plants in Maryland, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire after poultry producers complained that their birds showed performance problems, reduced egg production, or death. The complaints prompted an investigation by FDA’s New England District Office, which uncovered the feed problem. The firm has cooperated with FDA.
According to FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine officials, small, "backyard" flocks of poultry and gamebirds were affected. The feed was designed to be the sole ration for these smaller flocks.
Blue Seal sent letters, dated Aug. 4 and Aug. 14, to its dealers asking them to withdraw the feeds from distribution.
FDA declares a recall Class I if a defect in a product is likely to cause substantial injury or death to animals or humans. Recalls are voluntary actions by the firm involved. A Class I recall is the most demanding and requires a more thorough accounting of all product distribution.
The feed was distributed primarily in New England, the Middle Atlantic States and eastern Canada. It is sold through 141 direct accounts and 1,200 retail outlets. The feed was in 25-50 pound bags.
The feed was manufactured from February to July this year. A total of 18 different types of feed were involved, including medicated and non-medicated feeds.
Issued by:
FDA, Center for Veterinary Medicine,
Communications Staff, HFV-12
7519 Standish Place, Rockville, MD 20855
Telephone: (240) 276-9300 FAX: (240) 276-9115
Internet Web Site: http://www.fda.gov/cvm
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