‘Ice-block’ challenge model tests virus mitigation in feed

The role of animal feed as a vehicle for the transport and transmission of viral diseases was first identified during the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) epidemic in North America. Since that time, various feed additives have been evaluated at the laboratory level to measure their effect on viral viability and infectivity in contaminated feed using bioassay piglet models. While a valid first step, the conditions of these studies were not representative of commercial swine production.In this episode, Feedstuffs editor Sarah Muirhead talks with Dr. Scott Dee of Pipestone Applied Research, about his “ice-block” challenge study and how it was set up to evaluate the ability of some 15 feed additive products to mitigate the risk of virus-contaminated feed. Dee say the model involved freezing the viruses in ice and simulate real-world conditions on the farm.For more information on this and other stories, visit  Feedstuffs online.Follow Feedstuffs on Twitter @Feedstuffs, or join the conversation via Facebook.