The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recalled a batch of Top of the Rockies alfalfa cubes after at least 45 horses died or were euthanized after ingesting the feed.
Cubes with the date codes 111222, 111322, 111422, 111522 and 111622 should be thrown out in a secure or covered trash can or dumpster. The cubes were recalled by Manzanola Feeds of Manzanola, CO, which distributes products directly to feed stores and co-ops in the following states: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin.
Alfalfa cubes were reported to contain what appears to be fur and animal tissues, and some bags may have a foul order. The bacterium that causes botulism is commonly found in decaying animal carcasses. Around 100 horses in several states showed neurologic symptoms after ingesting the feed, and at least 45 horses have died or were euthanized.
After throwing the cubes away, the bins or containers that held them should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. For more information, visit fda.gov.
