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Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring toxic chemical byproduct from the growth of the fungus, Aspergillus flavus, on corn and other crops often used as ingredients in pet foods.
Some levels of the toxin 20 parts per billion is allowable in pet foods, and even higher amounts are allowed in cattle feeds, officials say.
Ryder, of Pennsylvanias agricultural department, says corn used to make Diamond foods, possibly between Sept. 1 and Nov. 30, 2005, contained higher levels of aflatoxin than allowed.
Ryder says pet-food companies routinely test corn when it arrives at processing plants for aflatoxin levels but for an unknown reason testing failed to determine the higher levels.
Pet-food companies retain samples of all food produced so it can be tested later if problems arise.
For more information, visit the Diamond Pet Foods website.
Updated Post: Feb. 1, 2006, 3 p.m. EST Page 1 | 2 | 3
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