Various contaminants can be present in cattle feed, potentially posing health risks to cattle and, subsequently, to humans consuming cattle products. Common contaminants include:
- Mycotoxins: These are toxic compounds produced by certain types of fungi that can grow on grains and forages. Mycotoxins can cause a range of health issues in cattle, including reduced productivity and immune suppression. - Pesticide Residues: Pesticides used in crop production can remain as residues in cattle feed, potentially leading to chronic health effects if ingested over time. - Heavy Metals: Metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic can be present in feed due to environmental contamination or industrial processes. They are toxic even at low concentrations. - Nitrate and Nitrite: These compounds can accumulate in feed from fertilized crops or contaminated water. High levels can cause nitrate poisoning in cattle.
