March 9, 2009

A salmonella virus has been discovered in poultry feed manufactured by Finland's Rehuraisio.

Experts are concerned that Rehuraisio-supplied feed at 26 farms may be contaminated with salmonella. The virus is suspected to be the Tennessee Salmonella strained found earlier last week at two egg-producing farms.

Tests to determine the strain of salmonella found in the feed will be ready on Monday, said Leif Liedes of Rehuraisio.

Production of the feed has been suspended and cleaning operations at the producing plant are underway. Affected feed still in storage will not be sold.

EVIRA, the Finnish Food Safety Authority, said imported soy chips are suspected of causing the contamination.