Recent recalls of certain pet foods, specifically dog and cat products, have raised health concerns due to possible salmonella contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has formally announced these voluntary recalls, emphasizing that salmonella can affect not only pets but also humans who handle contaminated products.
Health Risks Associated with Salmonella
Salmonella poses serious health risks. Pets consuming contaminated food may exhibit:
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea or blood in stool
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
For humans, symptoms can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, potentially bloody
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
In severe cases, salmonella can lead to serious health complications.
Details of the Recalls
Raw Bistro Pet Fare Recall
Raw Bistro Pet Fare, based in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, is recalling two sizes of its frozen beef dog food. The affected products include:
- “Raw Bistro Dog Fare Grass-Fed Beef Entrée, Frozen” in 3-pound bags (UPC 858833002247)
- “Raw Bistro Dog Fare Grass-Fed Beef Entrée, Bulk, Frozen” in 18-pound cases (UPC 858833002629)
Both items have a best-by date of August 27, 2026. These products were distributed to customers and select distributors in California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota between September 1 and September 17.
Foodynamics Recall
Foodynamics has also issued a recall for several freeze-dried pet treat varieties. These include:
- “Raw Dog Barkery” (two 16-ounce packages with a use-by date of March 5, 2025)
- “What’s In The Bowl” (three packages, including two 3-ounce and one 16-ounce, with a use-by date of March 5, 2027)
- “BellePepper Cats” (two 3-ounce packages labeled “Freeze Dried Chicken Heart Slices” with a use-by date of March 16, 2027)
The affected products were shipped from Wisconsin via UPS to locations in Wisconsin, New York, and Florida.
Recommendations for Pet Owners
Pet owners should take immediate action if they possess any recalled products. The FDA recommends:
- Disposing of recalled pet foods responsibly
- Avoiding donation or resale to prevent access by children, pets, or wildlife
- Thoroughly washing food bowls, cups, and containers that held the recalled food
- Washing hands after handling the recalled products
- Cleaning any utensils and surfaces that came into contact with the food
As of now, there have been no reported illnesses connected to the recalls from either company. Pet owners are urged to remain vigilant regarding the safety of their pets’ food.
