DNA Analysis in the Animal Feed Sector

Botanical verification, contamination control and mould identification.

Role of DNA analysis in animal feed quality assurance

DNA-based analytical techniques are applied in species verification, microbiological typing and cross-contamination control. Within the animal feed sector, this offers an additional analytical method when conventional physico-chemical or visual inspections fall short. Application is particularly relevant for processed feed materials, premixes or trace analyses.

TLR performs DNA analyses under ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation (RvA L059). Results are applicable within:

• GMP+ FSA - BA10, including article 4.1 (fraud prevention and origin verification)
• SecureFeed - source investigation and risk assessment
• Supplier audits and product specification checks

Application areas in feed audits and supply chain control

1. Botanical origin verification

• Identification of declared plant species in feed materials or premixes
• Applicable in import verification, formulation or suspected undeclared components

Case example:
A calf feed producer engaged TLR after a notification from a retail audit. DNA analysis of a so-called "soy-free" premix revealed the presence of soy residue in low concentration. Traceback investigation identified cross-contamination at the foreign supplier. The batch was downgraded and the procurement protocol tightened with additional batch verification.

2. Mould typing in toxin context

• DNA typing on isolates of Fusarium, Aspergillus or Penicillium
• Supports root cause analysis for mycotoxin exceedances (such as aflatoxin B1 or DON)
• Applicable to samples from raw material analyses, compound feeds or by-products

3. Cross-contamination control during batch change

• Presence/absence testing at DNA level for unwanted feed materials
• Suitable for facilities switching between regular and medicinal batches
• Applicable as a validation tool for flushing procedures and line cleaning

Techniques and detection limits

Note: Detection is possible at low concentrations, provided DNA integrity is preserved and the analysis matrix is homogeneous. Matrix validation is necessary for high-fat or high-fibre feeds (such as fish meal or alfalfa pellets).

Certification context: GMP+, SecureFeed and export

• GMP+ FSA (BA10):
  • Article 4.1 requires measures against fraud risks
  • DNA analysis supports botanical verification, particularly for imported raw materials or admixture risk
• SecureFeed:
  • Verification tool for deviations in audit or monitoring results
  • Supports origin verification of high-risk batches
• Export and recall management:
  • Reports usable for export certificates and supplier claims
  • Legal usability depends on contractual provisions and auditor acceptance

Accreditation and reporting

• Analyses performed under ISO/IEC 17025 (RvA L059)
• Report includes:
  • Positive/negative control
  • Identification level and thresholds
  • Measurement uncertainty where applicable
  • Report available in Dutch or English

Use: internal traceability files, recall investigations, documentation for retailers or exporting supply chains

Conclusion

DNA analysis offers the animal feed industry a robust tool for origin verification, contamination control and risk assessment. Applied within an accredited laboratory framework, this technique aligns seamlessly with the requirements of GMP+, SecureFeed and international supply chain assurance. With correct interpretation and matrix validation, DNA detection supports a systematic approach to feed safety and fraud prevention.