In a statement, Head of Incidents at the FSA (Food Standards Agency) Jodie Wild said: 鈥淲e鈥檙e working closely with government and local authority partners in response to an outbreak of botulism in cattle thought to be from animal feed. There is currently no indication of any immediate risk to human health. 聽
鈥淲e are taking action to safeguard the food and animal feed supply chain and taking precautionary action to protect both public and animal health and welfare. 聽
鈥淎n animal feed product has been withdrawn from the market on a precautionary basis and together with other agencies we won鈥檛 hesitate to take further rapid action to protect animal health.鈥�
An NFU spokesperson responded that the NFU had been made aware of botulism in cattle, possibly linked to contaminated feed. The spokesperson said: 鈥淲e sympathise with the farms affected during this difficult time and we would encourage any impacted members to get in touch with NFU CallFirst for support.
鈥淲e support the prompt action to identify the suspected source and urge any farmers concerned about their livestock to contact their vet.鈥�
Get support
Botulism infection in cattle is often fatal and has no cure. Members should refer to the pages for more information on symptoms and call their vet immediately if concerned.
NFU members can contact CallFirst on聽0370 845 8458 if they have been impacted.