FDA WARNING_LETTER - Tex-Stein Dairy - February 19, 2026

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Warning Letter to Tex-Stein Dairy, located in Windthorst, Texas, following an inspection conducted from February 5 through 19, 2026. The inspection revealed significant violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act related to the sale of a cow for human consumption that contained illegal drug residues. Laboratory testing by the USDA identified meloxicam, for which there is no established safe level, and ceftiofur at concentrations more than thirteen times the legal limit. Beyond the presence of harmful residues, the dairy was cited for failing to maintain adequate treatment records. Specifically, the farm failed to document medication dosages, reasons for treatment, and required safety wait times before slaughter. The FDA also found that the farm ignored veterinarian instructions by shipping an animal for slaughter before the mandated 21-day safety period for meloxicam had expired. To resolve these issues, the owner must submit a written response within 15 working days detailing the specific corrective actions taken to prevent recurrence. This response must include documentation of new procedures to ensure medication is managed safely and that all future food products comply with federal safety standards.