The live animal export industry has gone into damage control, following the release of graphic footage of the inhumane slaughter of Australian cattle in our largest overseas market.

Late yesterday, the Agriculture Minister, Senator Joe Ludwig, ordered his department to conduct an immediate investigation, after viewing the footage which he said left him shocked at the mistreatment of the animals.

Three children have died and 35 people have become ill from drinking nitrite-tainted milk in China's north-western Gansu province, Xinhua news agency has reported in the latest food safety scandal to hit the dairy industry.

Most of the 35 were children under 14 now being treated at two hospitals in Pingliang city, Xinhua said, citing the local government and health bureau.