This archive report was first published on 5 June 2020.
Strict Control of Animal Feeds Trade Needed ¶
As a veterinary scientist, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of substandard and toxic animal feeds in Kenya. The recent cases of fungal toxin poisoning in dogs and the recent incident of pig deaths due to contaminated feed are a stark reminder of the need for strict control of the animal feeds trade.
According to the Kenya Bureau of Standards and the State Department of Livestock, the regulation of animal feeds is currently haphazardly carried out. This has led to a proliferation of substandard and toxic feeds in the market, posing a significant risk to animal health and human safety.
The case of the pig deaths is particularly disturbing. The farm manager, Joyce, had consulted me two weeks ago about two pigs that had lost appetite and appeared to have excess gas in the gut. Medically, this is called bloating. She had given some Epsom salt and the pigs had recovered. However, when another pig suddenly died at night, Joyce shared photos of her post-mortem findings, which revealed that the stomach and intestines were heavily inflamed and showed excessive blood supply consistent with exposure to an irritant chemical.
Further investigation revealed that the feed had been changed from own production to ready-made commercial rations, which contained a powdery content and stones. The feed manufacturer confirmed the presence of the powdery content and agreed to replace the feeds in stock and compensate for the dead and two sick pigs.
Scientifically, the stones are unlikely to have had anything to do with the pigs' illness and death. However, the powdery substance, which was later identified as hydrated lime, a chemical used in the construction industry, was the likely culprit. Hydrated lime causes a burning effect on the skin, irritates and burns the mouth and gut lining if consumed, and burns the lining of the respiratory system, including the lungs, if inhaled.
The case of the pig deaths highlights the need for strict control of the animal feeds trade. The problems occurring in feed manufacturing are not only fraudulent to the farmer but also negatively impact the health of every consumer of livestock products. It is time for the country to establish an effective regulatory system for animal feeds and pet foods.
Until then, livestock farmers, dog and pet owners, and animal health service providers should report any suspect feeds to the Director of Veterinary Services for investigation and action.
