Steps livestock producers can take to identify and prevent feed contamination are outlined in the guidance.

Contaminants are described as “sometimes present in the farm production environment” which threaten either animal health or food supply chain safety.

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) had reservations about the draft and will work across the industry over the 75 day public comment period, starting from 20 March.

AFIA spokesperson for legislative and regulatory affairs, Richard Sellers, said: “We show concern surrounding the encouragement of animal producers to contact FDA with problems, but the neglect to mention the importance of contacting the firm whose name is on the label.”

The Association intends to ask the FDA to amend the draft to tell producers to contact the manufacturer about “potential feed concerns”, he added.

"Although the draft has been in the works for quite some time, this is our first glance at the guidance. Unfortunately, AFIA was unable to provide input to the agency during the drafting of the document.”