Feed Hygiene Regulations

From 1st January 2008, the Feed Hygiene Regulations apply to most farms and businesses that feed livestock or grow crops to feed to livestock. As part of the compliance, farmers will have to complete a declaration and submit to Trading Standards. These Regulations have been implemented to ensure that animal feed is produced and used safely and can be traced in the event of a food safety incident.

There are 2 basic steps to ensure compliance, the Regulations and process of registration are straightforward and not particularly onerous, especially if the farm is assured.

1.  Ensure compliance with basic feed hygiene

Ensure feed/crops for use in animal feed are protected against contamination and spoilage; equipment for mixing, storing and transporting feed/crops for use in animal feed is clean; maintain records of feed/crops used or sold. (Following the principles in the Industry Code of Practice for On-Farm Feeding).

2.  Decide if a statement of compliance is required?

A statement is required on:

Livestock farms which use purchased or home produced feed, or mix feeds without additives.

Any farms growing or selling crops for feed to livestock. This includes hay and straw.

A statement is not required on:

Farms mixing feeds on farm with additives and premixtures [such as vitamins A and D and trace elements (copper, selenium, zinc etc)] or mixing feeds on farm with compound feeding stuffs which contain additives. These farms should already be registered under previous legislation and have notified their local authority by 1st January 2006.

Completing the Statement of Compliance

Determine which is your appropriate business and complete all the relevant information in the statement of compliance. Please return it to us at the address on the document, once it is received we will advise you of your registration/approval number. There is no fee for making this declaration.

If you require further assistance or advice please contact Adrian Jones on 01432 383224.