Five beef cows died at Alabama farm after having access to feed product.
While the exact cause of the death remains under investigation, elevated levels of non-protein nitrogen (NPN) may be the cause. Cattle exposed to elevated NPN may exhibit rapid breathing, tremors and slight incoordination followed by severe incoordination, excessive salivation and labored breathing. Eventually, afflicted animals lose the ability to stand. Generally, if not treated, animals may die within four hours. If producers have animals that have consumed this product and have any of these symptoms, producers should contact their local veterinarian for assistance.
In a precautionary move to prevent any further loss of livestock, this particular product will be removed from the line and unavailable for purchase until further notice.
The beef cattle product subject to this recall was purchased by two distributors, one in Georgia and one in Alabama, who resold the product to farm supply dealers and ranchers located in Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida and Illinois.
The cattle feed subject to this recall may be identified by its label, which describes the product as “JES Premium 40 Tub” and includes the product number JES 3104-8. The subject batch was manufactured between Sept. 29, 2016, to Dec. 15, 2016, and packaged in 250-pound blue plastic tubs.
Cattle producers who have purchased JES Premium 40 Tub labeled as product number JES 3104-8 should discontinue use of the product and return any unused tubs to the place of purchase for a refund of the purchase price. Producers should contact their veterinarian for assistance if their cattle have consumed from tubs of product number JES 3104-8.
Cattle producers with questions concerning this recall may contact Whitestone Feeds, Inc. at hardin@integrityfeeds.com or by calling (270) 970-0787 Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Central Time.
This voluntary recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.
