70 Horses Die in Oklahoma Rodeo Due to Contaminated Feed
- Preliminary tests revealed that the horse feed was contaminated with Monensin, a toxic additive for horses.
- The contamination was linked to a failed cleaning procedure and a sensor malfunction during production.
- Investigations are ongoing to ensure feed safety and prevent future incidents.
In a tragic incident last month, approximately 70 horses died at a breeding ranch in Oklahoma due to contaminated feed. The Livestock Nutrition Center, which supplied the feed, confirmed that preliminary tests revealed the presence of Monensin, a toxic additive for horses commonly found in cattle feed. The contamination was attributed to a combination of a failed cleaning procedure and a malfunctioning sensor during the feed production process. The company emphasized that this was an isolated incident affecting only one specific load of feed from a single facility, assuring that other supplies remain safe for animal consumption. Livestock Nutrition Center is collaborating with agricultural departments in Oklahoma and Kansas to investigate the source of the contamination and prevent future occurrences. State investigations are currently underway, with results expected in two to three weeks. The incident has raised concerns about feed safety and the protocols in place for ensuring the health of livestock. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding how such a toxic substance could enter the feed supply chain and what measures can be implemented to safeguard against similar incidents in the future. The loss of these horses has not only impacted the ranch but also highlights the critical importance of stringent quality control in animal feed production.