Yle: Salmonella found in a large feed mill – Contaminated feed distributed to farms
Salmonella has been confirmed in a major feed mill operated by Hankkija in Seinäjoki, leading to the disposal of contaminated feed that was distributed to several farms.
Salmonella contamination has been detected at Hankkija's feed mill in Seinäjoki, Finland, prompting large-scale disposal of affected feed products. This event escalates from previous suspicions that arose weeks ago concerning a batch of feed intended for pigs. In response to the findings, Hankkija halted production and deliveries as a precaution and announced thorough cleaning and disinfection processes at the facility.
The company’s feed business manager, Henrik Willberg, indicated that production has resumed on three out of four production lines, with plans to restore full operations shortly. It was noted that less than ten farms in Southern Ostrobothnia and other parts of Finland received the contaminated feed, though the extent of any salmonella spread is still under investigation with both contaminated and clean samples being collected from the affected farms.
The incident raises concerns regarding food safety and animal health within Finland's agricultural sector, particularly as the situation develops. While many samples from farms are reportedly clean, there remains uncertainty about the potential risks associated with the delivered feed. Public health officials and farmers are vigilant as they await results from further testing.