Resolving Feed Complaints
Although infrequent, disputes sometimes arise between livestock producers and feed companies over the quality or safety of purchased feed. Visible mold, unusual ingredients, or unexpected feed characteristics may indicate an error in manufacturing, formulation, or delivery. A clear process helps ensure issues are addressed quickly and appropriately.
 
1. First Step: Contact the Feed Company
When a producer suspects a feed quality problem:
  • Notify the feed company immediately.
  • Most feed companies will investigate promptly and remove and replace the feed.
  • If the feed is replaced and no harm has occurred to livestock, the issue is typically resolved at this stage.
 
2. When to Contact the CFIA
If:
  • the issue is not resolved quickly, or
  • animal health has been affected, or
  • negotiations become prolonged
…the next step is to contact Helen Page, District Program Officer – Feed, Fertilizer and Seed, with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
The CFIA is responsible for food safety, including safety of feed intended for food‑producing animals.
 
3. What Happens During a CFIA Investigation
If the complaint raises a potential food safety concern, an inspector will typically visit the next day.
Critical: Do NOT remove or return the suspect feed.
  • Keep feed in the delivery bin, or
  • Maintain unopened bags from the same lot.
  • Do not allow the feed company to remove the feed until the CFIA has obtained official samples.
CFIA may:
  • Review mill records to identify possible errors
  • Test for:
    • Drug residues
    • Mycotoxins
  • Use microscopy to determine the identity of feed ingredients
Results
Official sample results are sent to:
  • the producer
  • the feed company
  • the producer’s veterinarian or another involved third party
CFIA does not mediate disputes. Final resolution is the responsibility of the producer and feed company.
 
4. Nutrient Discrepancies and CFIA’s Role
The CFIA generally does not investigate routine nutrient analysis discrepancies.
Commercial feed manufacturers must comply with the Feeds Act and Regulations, which define acceptable nutrient ranges.
  • If a feed’s nutrient levels fall outside allowable limits, the product must be registered.
  • CFIA may issue a warning letter, but typically does not pursue legal action.
  • Producers may request a copy of the Feeds Act if they choose to pursue civil action.
 
5. Frequency and Cost
The CFIA investigates feed complaints. There is no cost to producers for this service. For more information or to initiate a complaint: 204-259-1400. (Winnipeg CFIA office)
 
Summary
When a feed quality issue arises:
  1. Notify the feed company first—many issues are resolved quickly.
  2. If unresolved, or if animal health or food safety is at stake, contact the CFIA.
  3. Preserve the suspect feed until official samples are taken.
  4. Understand that the CFIA’s involvement focuses on food safety, not nutrient discrepancies.
  5. Final resolution rests with the producer and feed company.