Texas seeks FDA approval for medicated feed to fight livestock pest

Texas is urging federal authorities to expedite the approval of medicated animal feed containing ivermectin as a critical tool against the New World Screwworm (NWS), a parasitic pest affecting livestock. The state's agriculture commissioner, Sid Miller, has formally requested the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to permit the use of this treatment.

The NWS, a parasitic fly whose larvae develop in the flesh of warm-blooded animals, poses a significant threat to the agricultural sector. Since its first detection in the U.S. on June 3, 2026, 31 cases have been confirmed across Texas and New Mexico, impacting cattle and sheep. The most recent outbreak was reported in a flock of sheep in Texas on June 30.

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Ranchers in Texas are fighting for their livelihoods and the safety of America's food supply. They don't have time to wait.

Commissioner Miller stressed the critical need for swift action, stating, "Ranchers in Texas are fighting for their livelihoods and the safety of America's food supply. They don't have time to wait." While injectable ivermectin is currently used, Miller argues it is insufficient for managing large herds on extensive pastures. Medicated feed offers a less labor-intensive and less stressful method for treating animals, and could potentially extend protection to wildlife.

The Texas Grain and Feed Association has expressed readiness to produce and distribute the medicated feed once approved. Miller added, "This parasite doesn't wait for the government to complete formalities, so neither should we." The Texas Department of Agriculture advocates for a comprehensive strategy, including increased sterile fly production, enhanced surveillance, injectable treatments, feed additives, and faster approval processes for new control tools.

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This parasite doesn't wait for the government to complete formalities, so neither should we.