Increasing legislation and rising energy costs are forcing feed manufacturers to focus on implementing viable, cost-effective alternatives to heat-treatment in order to reduce the risk of Salmonella infection in their products, according to Anitox, a company involved in biosecurity and milling efficiency solutions for the animal feed industry.

Commenting on the response of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Panel on Biological Hazards to a recent question from the Health and Consumer Protection, General Directorate, European Commission, Anitox Regional Director for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Roger Mann said, "Increasing legislation such as the ''Control of Salmonella and Other Specified Food Borne Zoonotic Agents Regulation (2160/2003)'' requires all livestock producers to implement procedures ensure feeds are free from Salmonella, which is driving a major focus on safety throughout the food chain. Doing so economically has become a major issue.

"EFSA''s response highlights the potential for pathogen contamination in feed. With the global feed and food industries watching closely what happens in Europe, feed manufacturers and livestock producers must appreciate the importance of producing pathogen-free feed, be fully aware of the microbiological status of their products and consider plans to manage this requirement cost-effectively.

"Although numerous compounds are available to control Salmonella and other undesirable micro-organisms in feed, their usability and efficiency varies widely. The EFSA''s response points out that a formaldehyde-based feed treatment provides a viable alternative to heat treatment in treating feed initially and preventing recontamination. Work by the Veterinary Laboratories Agency has also underlined the large differences in efficacy between different feed treatments in terms of their ability to mask the presence of Salmonella.''''

Anitox produces antimicrobial preservatives for animal feeds, feed ingredients, and foodstuffs for human consumption.