Lasalocid Testing in Feed and Food

Lasalocid is a polyether ionophore antibiotic used as a coccidiostat in poultry and as a feed additive in certain ruminant production systems. It functions by disrupting ion transport across the membranes of susceptible protozoa, particularly Eimeria species, thereby limiting the development of coccidial infections.
In addition to its role in poultry, lasalocid is also used in cattle to support feed efficiency and growth performance.

In poultry production, lasalocid forms part of structured coccidiosis control programmes aimed at maintaining intestinal integrity and production consistency. In ruminants, it is used to influence rumen microbial activity and improve feed utilisation.
Because inclusion levels differ between species and production stages, careful formulation and adherence to authorised concentrations are essential. Accurate dosing and uniform mixing during feed manufacture are critical to ensure both efficacy and safety.

Lasalocid, like other ionophores, has a defined safety margin and must be managed carefully within feed production systems.
Risks may arise from:
‣ Over-inclusion during batching
‣ Cross-contamination between medicated and non-medicated feed
‣ Inadequate flushing of shared production lines
‣ Accidental exposure of non-target species
Horses are particularly sensitive to ionophores, including lasalocid, and exposure can result in severe toxicity. Facilities manufacturing feed for multiple species must therefore implement strict segregation and verification procedures.
Regulatory authorities control authorised inclusion rates and, where applicable, residue considerations to protect consumer safety.

Because lasalocid is incorporated at controlled concentrations, analytical verification is essential to confirm compliance and to manage carry-over risks.
Testing is used to:
Confirm declared concentrations in medicated feed
Verify the absence or acceptable carry-over in non-target feed
Monitor production line integrity
Support internal quality control programmes
Modern LC-MS/MS methods enable reliable quantification of lasalocid across premix and compound feed matrices at low concentration levels.

Effective management combines accurate premix formulation, validated dosing systems and controlled production sequencing. Representative sampling and routine analytical testing provide measurable assurance that manufacturing controls remain effective.
Given its use across different species and production systems, structured monitoring of lasalocid is an important component of feed safety and regulatory compliance.