What defines a Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) as described in the materials?

• A. A written statement issued by a licensed veterinarian in the course of the veterinarian's professional practice that orders the use of a VFD drug or combination VFD drug in or on an animal feed
• B. A product label that accompanies VFD drugs
• C. A federal permit to manufacture medicated feed
• D. A veterinary prescription for an injectable antibiotic

Answer: (A)

A Veterinary Feed Directive is a written directive from a licensed veterinarian, given in the course of the veterinarian’s practice, that orders the use of a VFD drug (or a combination VFD drug) in or on a animal feed. This definition emphasizes veterinary oversight and the specific context of medicated feed, rather than general product labeling, manufacturing permits, or injectable prescriptions.

Why this is the best fit: it captures all the key elements that make a VFD distinct—the directive must be in writing, come from a qualified veterinarian, be issued for use in feed, and authorize the use of a medicated feed drug. The other options refer to different concepts: a label accompanies the drug but does not constitute a veterinary directive; a federal permit is about production, not veterinary authorization; an injectable antibiotic prescription targets non-feed medical use.