Good question! Here's how the rules currently stand.

A: In response to concerns about "mad cow disease" or BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released new guidelines about feeding certain ruminant-derived a nimal protein sources to ruminants, including dairy cows. The prohibited animal proteins will alter ration formulations and record-keeping systems for many dairies.

Two classes of ruminant-derived animal proteins are covered. Prohibited proteins include meat and bone meal. Non-prohibited proteins include milk, milk proteins, gelatin, blood and blood byproducts.

Feeds containing prohibited animal proteins must state, "Do not feed to cattle or other ruminants." If the feed does not include this statement but contains animal proteins, it is acceptable for ruminant rations. Your feed suppliers can provide information on animal-protein products contained in their feeds.

Producers feeding animal protein-based rations must maintain records for one year from receipt of product. Other industry segments, renderers, feed companies and protein blenders, also are required to keep records. Keep invoices for bulk deliveries and for all products containing animal proteins, including non-prohibited proteins, milk replacer and calf starter. Save bulk delivery placards and bag/container labels from animal protein-based feeds. If a label can't be removed, save a representative bag or a copy of the label. Legible copies of invoices and labels must be available for inspection or copying by the FDA.