History tells us that contamination of equine feeds by ingredients intended for other species has been a regular occurrence in the thoroughbred industry. Recent high profile cases have received plenty of media attention, however there are many more instances that effect owners, trainers, reputations and livelihoods that often go virtually unnoticed. The consequences of feeding contaminated horse feed can range from a positive swab to, in extreme cases, the death of the horse.

A story from Tasmania. And there's concern today from parts of Tasmania's horse training industry that the contamination of horse feed with opium poppies could damage the state's racing reputation. This week, three horses in the state were disqualified from racing after traces of opium were found in their blood. The Tasmanian Poppy Industry says the feed contamination was accidental, and was an isolated case of bad luck. But, as Nicole Johnston in Hobart reports, the owner of the disqualified horses says it simply shouldn't happen. (The World Today Archive - Thursday, 6 September, 2001).