African swine fever would be transmitted through feed and bedding. There is no conclusive evidence, which is why EFSA is commissioning an investigation.
Feed and bedding are considered one of the transmission sources of African swine fever (ASF). Nevertheless, the European Food Safety Authority EFSA states, based on literature studies, that this is a limited risk. However, there are major uncertainties in this conclusion due to a lack of scientific data.
Research into stability of AVP viruses
On behalf of the EFSA, the German Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI) and the Bundesinstituts für Risikobewertung (BfR) together with the Swedish State Veterinary Institute are starting a study into the stability of ASF viruses on various animal feeds and bedding materials under practical storage conditions. Both German institutes have previously conducted a literature study on animal feed as a source of infection. Transport and storage were also considered. The conclusion was that the virus could possibly end up in processed by-products, grain extraction flour and compound feed, but is largely inactivated as a result of the processing process.
Re-contamination due to incorrect handling of products after manufacturing
However, improper handling of the products after manufacturing can lead to re-contamination with ASF. If the generally applicable hygiene regulations and preventive measures for the handling and production of animal feeds are observed, this transmission route is quite unlikely, according to the researchers. Transmission cannot be completely ruled out in feeds that have not undergone further treatment and are fed directly. The research that has now been started should provide insight into the survival of the ASF virus during the processing and storage of feeds.