Dear Portfolio Committee on Agriculture,

Dear Sir/Madam,

I respectfully urge the Department to consider initiating controlled clinical trials to evaluate the potential role of colloidal silver in managing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in livestock. Laboratory studies indicate that silver nanoparticles can inactivate various viruses, yet their effects in live animals remain largely untested. Some farmers have also reported anecdotal success with colloidal silver in supporting livestock health, highlighting the potential value of scientifically rigorous evaluation.

It is acknowledged that colloidal silver carries a controversial reputation. This stems from early formulations in the 19th and 20th centuries, which were poorly standardized, often contained high concentrations of silver, and were not carefully monitored. These early solutions sometimes caused serious adverse effects, including argyria (a permanent bluish discoloration of the skin) and organ toxicity. Modern production methods, by contrast, allow precise control over particle size, concentration, and purity, eliminating the risks associated with those early formulations and producing a solution that is stable and safe for controlled use in animals under research conditions.

I propose that such trials be conducted. (Note that these trials would not replace existing vaccination strategies but could provide evidence on whether colloidal silver can serve as a complementary tool in FMD management.)

I encourage the Department to review this proposal and provide guidance on whether clinical trials of this nature can be incorporated into its research priorities.

Yours sincerely,
Stacey van der Walt