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Sec. 675.300 Moisture Damaged Grain (CPG 7126.10)

BACKGROUND:

In the past *CVM* has authorized the diversion of moisture-damaged grain as well as other food materials for animal feed use. Such authorization has always had to take into consideration the nature and source of the water since fires from grain elevator explosions are often quenched using sea water or river water which may contain sewage, pathogenic organisms, chemical wastes or other toxic substances. Similar problems are posed when foodstuff is flooded following hurricanes or other natural disasters. Even more serious is the mold growth which may occur in wet foods. Certain molds such as Aspergillus flavus produce aflatoxins which are toxic or carcinogenic to certain animals including man, and if present in animal feed, can result in the presence of aflatoxin residues in foods produced by the ingesting animal.

Authorization of the conversion of moisture-damaged grain to animal feed use must be made on a case-by-case basis to include consideration whether actual or suspected pathogenic organisms, chemical pollutants, mold growth and toxins can be satisfactorily removed or neutralized by one or more of several procedures available. The choice of reclamation action must be based upon knowledge of all of the facts.


POLICY:

Moisture-damaged and/or moldy foodstuffs may be considered for conversion to animal feed use. However, in each case authorization will be made by *CVM* in consultation with *CFSAN* based upon information concerning the nature and source of the moisture and the actual or suspected type of contamination and whether the damaged material may be rendered safe for use as animal feed. *Requests for diversion should follow the procedures outlined in Compliance Policy Guide 7126.20, "Diversion of Adulterated Human or Animal Food To Acceptable Animal Feed Use."*

*Material between asterisks is new or revised*

Issued: 10/1/80
Revised: 3/95