ADM Animal Nutrition Recalls Livestock Feed Due to Nutrient Imbalance Concerns
ADM Animal Nutrition, a prominent Illinois-based manufacturer, has initiated a voluntary recall of 33 distinct lots of its pelleted animal feed products. The recall, announced by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday, stems from concerns regarding potentially elevated levels of copper and deficient levels of zinc in the affected feed. This nutrient imbalance could pose health risks to livestock, particularly cattle, consuming the product.
The affected products were sold across several states, including Illinois, Missouri, Tennessee, Iowa, Georgia, and Ohio, between January 16 and February 27. The recall affects a specific range of product lots, and consumers who purchased feed during this period are strongly advised to check their product information against the list provided by ADM Animal Nutrition and the FDA.
The presence of elevated copper levels and insufficient zinc levels in livestock feed can have detrimental effects on animal health. Copper toxicity, resulting from prolonged exposure to high copper concentrations, can manifest in various symptoms. These include anorexia, characterized by a loss of appetite and refusal to eat, abdominal pain, leading to discomfort and distress in the animal, dehydration, caused by excessive fluid loss, diarrhea, resulting in loose and frequent bowel movements, and depression, marked by lethargy and a lack of interest in normal activities.
Conversely, zinc deficiency, caused by inadequate zinc intake, can lead to decreased appetite, reduced feed efficiency, and impaired growth. Zinc plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including immune function, wound healing, and enzyme activity. A deficiency in zinc can therefore compromise the animal’s overall health and productivity.
ADM Animal Nutrition discovered the nutrient imbalance during a routine quality control check. The company promptly notified the FDA and initiated the recall to address the issue and prevent potential harm to livestock.
In a statement released to Fox News Digital, ADM Animal Nutrition acknowledged the manufacturing issue and assured consumers that corrective measures have been implemented. "ADM Animal Nutrition has been providing safe and nutritious feed and feed ingredients for more than 100 years, and the safety of our products is our top priority," the statement emphasized. The company is diligently working to recall all affected products and minimize any potential impact on customers.
ADM further clarified that the manufacturing issue, identified in February 2025, resulted in discrepancies between the mineral levels present in the feed and those indicated on the product label. The company is cooperating closely with the FDA to ensure the swift and effective resolution of the recall.
The recall underscores the importance of proper nutrient balance in livestock feed. Animals require specific amounts of essential minerals and vitamins to maintain optimal health, growth, and reproductive performance. Imbalances in nutrient levels can disrupt these physiological processes and lead to various health problems.
The FDA plays a vital role in regulating the animal feed industry and ensuring the safety and nutritional adequacy of feed products. The agency conducts inspections of feed manufacturing facilities, monitors feed products for potential contaminants, and enforces labeling regulations to protect animal health.
While no illnesses or deficiency impacts have been reported to date in connection to this recall, livestock owners are urged to take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Customers who have purchased the affected feed are advised to discontinue its use immediately and contact ADM Animal Nutrition to request a replacement or refund.
The potential impact of livestock diets on human health cannot be ignored. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the nutritional composition of animal feed can influence the quality and safety of animal-derived products, such as meat, milk, and eggs, which are consumed by humans. Therefore, ensuring the quality and safety of livestock feed is essential for protecting both animal and human health.
This recall serves as a reminder of the complex challenges involved in ensuring the safety and quality of animal feed. Manufacturers must implement robust quality control measures, conduct regular testing of feed products, and maintain close communication with regulatory agencies to prevent and address potential issues.
Customers seeking further information about the recall, including a list of affected product lots and instructions on how to request a replacement or refund, are encouraged to visit the ADM Animal Nutrition website or contact the company’s customer service department. The FDA website also provides information about the recall and other animal feed safety issues.
The ADM Animal Nutrition recall highlights the importance of vigilance and collaboration in the animal feed industry to safeguard animal health and protect the food supply. It is a situation that requires immediate action from consumers.
