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  6. Physical Contaminants
  1. Biological, Chemical, and Physical Contaminants in Animal Food

Physical Contaminants

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Physical contaminants are broadly classified as sharp objects, choking hazards, and conditions of animal food contaminants such as size and hardness. Injuries from physical contaminants may include oral cavity damage (e.g., tooth damage or laceration of the mouth or throat), laceration or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract, and choking.

In addition, filth (dirt, feces, insect parts, etc.) may also be considered a physical contaminant. If the contaminant can be a vector for a biological pathogen, CVM would address filth as a biological contaminant.

Guidance

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