Pet food recalls, often precautionary, aim to ensure the safety and well-being of pets by addressing potential contamination risks. Recently, the FDA announced voluntary recalls from two pet food manufacturers: Viva Raw LLC and Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc.
Viva Raw LLC
Viva Raw LLC, based in Hillsborough, North Carolina, is recalling several dog and cat food products due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The affected items include Viva Turkey for Dogs Ground, Viva Turkey for Dogs Chunked, Viva Turkey for Cats, Viva Pure Turkey, and Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies, all from Lot 21244. The contamination was discovered during an FDA and North Carolina Department of Agriculture facility inspection, where samples tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.
Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe infections in pets, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and anorexia. Infected pets might also become asymptomatic carriers, spreading the bacteria through feces and saliva. Humans can be exposed to Listeria through handling contaminated food, contact with affected pets, or touching contaminated surfaces. Proper sanitation and avoiding direct contact with the contaminated products are crucial to prevent illness.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide between May 16 and June 28, 2024. As of July 1, 2024, no related illnesses have been reported. The FDA advises using gloves or paper towels to handle and dispose of the contaminated food and thoroughly sanitizing any surfaces it touched.
Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc.
Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc., based in Weston, Ohio, has expanded its voluntary recall to include several lots of Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food and Vitakraft Vita Smart Hedgehog Food due to potential Salmonella contamination.
The contamination was identified on June 18, 2024, by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture during routine testing, not prompted by consumer complaints.
Salmonella can infect animals and pose a risk to humans handling contaminated products. Symptoms in pets include lethargy, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, while humans may experience gastrointestinal distress. Pet owners should be vigilant for symptoms and seek veterinary care if needed.
The recalled products were shipped to numerous states, including Arizona, California, Florida, and others. Vitakraft Sun Seed advises customers to discard the affected products and offers full refunds for purchases from these lots.
Pet owners are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow FDA guidelines to ensure the health and safety of their pets and themselves.
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