Earlier this month, headlines started circulating that two Chinese nationals were charged with attempting to smuggle a dangerous biological pathogen into the U.S. The fungus in question, Fusarium graminearum, is known to devastate grain crops like wheat, corn, barley, and rice – some of which the dairy farmer relies on for cattle feed. With the potential to cause severe vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive defects in both humans and livestock, the fungus has been classified as an agroterrorism weapon.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice and several news outlets, the pair allegedly brought the pathogen through Detroit Metropolitan Airport. The pathogen, a red-colored plant material, was contained in four clear plastic bags inside Liu Zunyong’s luggage. Evidence indicates the plan was to research and cultivate the pathogen in a lab located on University of Michigan campus, where Jian Yunqing, one of the pair, was employed.
What does a grain fungus have to do with dairy?
While this particular case is mostly a threat to crops, it hits far too close to home for the dairy sector. It’s a stark reminder that threats to our livelihoods can come in ways we least expect.
We sometimes think of biosecurity as something that matters most during disease outbreaks like HPAI/H5N1, foot-and-mouth disease, BRD, or BVD. But this incident reminds us that the threats aren’t always walking on four legs and can come in the feed, the soil, or even the air.
If contaminated grain or corn silage enters the dairy ration, it could impact herd health, milk production, genetics, and – more dangerously – food safety. Even low levels of Fusarium graminearum can produce millions of mycotoxins, making these impacts rapid and uncontrollable.
So, while this incident made national news, the takeaway for dairy producers is localized: Biosecurity doesn’t stop at the barn door, it starts with awareness and action.
You don’t need a lab coat to take action on biosecurity. Here are a few practical steps every dairy can implement:
Tighten feed sourcing. Know where your feed comes from and work only with trusted suppliers. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about storage and shipping practices. Ask for proof of testing, and don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal that doesn’t feel right.
Test your feed. If you’re not already screening for mycotoxins or other contaminants, now’s the time. A bad batch can undo years, even generations, of progress with your herd.
Control access. Whether it’s a feed truck or a hoof trimmer, limit who comes onto the farm and where they go. Provide boot washes and covers and keep visitor logs.
Train your team. Make sure your crew knows the basics of disease and contaminant awareness. Teach them to spot early signs and respond quickly. Empower them to speak up quickly when something doesn’t look or feel right.
Stay connected. Follow updates from extension, USDA, and trusted farm organizations. Being informed is your first line of defense. The faster you hear about issues, the faster you can respond or prepare.
Inspect technology. Claims also circulate that Chinese-made agricultural drones may be a source to transport biological warfare against crops. Review your technology for potential vulnerabilities.
Awareness is the best asset
Agroterrorism might sound like something out of an action movie, but this case proves it’s a very real concern. And while federal agencies work to intercept these threats at the border, the rest of us – especially those contributing to the food supply – have to stay vigilant at home.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by things we can’t control. But biosecurity is something we can control. From how we buy feed to how we let people on the farm, we can all do our part to keep our cattle, our communities, and our consumers safe.
Because when a threat is invisible, preparedness becomes your best defense.
