On December 9, 2025, Cargill Animal Nutrition & Health announced a voluntary recall of one specific lot of Nutrena® Country Feeds® Cracked Corn, distributed for use by livestock. This recall was initiated due to detection of elevated aflatoxin levels, which may pose significant health risks to livestock consuming the product. The affected lot was distributed exclusively in Texas via retail stores.
Key Points:
- The recall applies to one specific lot of Nutrena® Country Feeds® Cracked Corn.
- High levels of aflatoxin were identified, exceeding FDA safety levels for certain animals.
- Livestock owners in Texas should check their product labels and contact their retailers for refunds or exchanges.
In this article:
Why was this recall issued?
The recall resulted from recent sampling by the Office of the Texas State Chemist. Their tests identified a sample containing aflatoxin concentrations of 35 parts per billion (ppb), surpassing the FDA action level for immature animals, equines, small ruminants, dairy animals, and wildlife. However, Cargill’s retained product sample from the same lot registered aflatoxin levels of less than 1 ppb. At this time, neither Cargill nor the FDA has received any injury or illness reports related to this product.
The lot code and manufacture date for the affected product are printed on the bottom right-hand side of the label. Distribution of this specific lot in Texas has been discontinued. Meanwhile, the investigation into the root cause of this issue is ongoing.
What risks do aflatoxins pose?
Aflatoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by certain fungi that can grow on grains and other crops. When livestock consume feed containing elevated aflatoxin levels, it can result in a range of health issues:
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Reduced feed efficiency and weight gain
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort
- Reduced milk or egg production
- Immune suppression and liver damage
Moreover, dairy animals metabolize aflatoxins into milk, potentially affecting milk safety. Long-term or high-level exposure may lead to more severe outcomes, including jaundice, cancerous tumors, or impaired blood clotting.
What should livestock owners do?
Livestock owners using Nutrena® Country Feeds® Cracked Corn from the recalled lot should stop using the product immediately. Unused portions should be returned to the point of purchase, where customers can request a replacement or full refund.
If any livestock have consumed the affected product and exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, reduced feed intake, or jaundice, owners should promptly consult a veterinarian.
For further information about this recall, Cargill has advised customers to contact their hotline at 1-800-292-7694, available Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Central Time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is affected by this recall?
Livestock owners in Texas who purchased Nutrena® Country Feeds® Cracked Corn within the identified lot are impacted. Retailers have ceased distribution of this product. - What are aflatoxins?
Aflatoxins are toxic compounds generated by fungi. They can affect grain quality and harm livestock health at elevated levels. - What should I do if my livestock show symptoms?
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your animals display any adverse symptoms such as weight loss or vomiting. - Where can I return recalled product?
Customers can return recalled products to their retailer for a replacement or refund.
Conclusion
Cargill’s voluntary recall of Nutrena® Country Feeds® Cracked Corn highlights the company’s commitment to livestock safety and regulatory compliance. Veterinary support is encouraged for livestock displaying symptoms after consuming the product. Regular updates from regulatory bodies and the manufacturer will offer further transparency during the ongoing investigation.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult regulatory professionals for guidance specific to your context.
FDA Announcement
For full information about the FDA announcement, see the link below.
https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/cargill-conducts-voluntary-recall-single-lot-nutrenar-country-feedsr-cracked-corn-livestock-due