(TheIndependentStar.com) – Blue Ridge Beef’s recent pet food recall highlights the growing concern over food safety standards as contaminated batches pose dangerous health risks to both pets and pet owners.
The recall affects products distributed across multiple states and involves dangerous pathogens.
This incident underscores the importance of strict safety protocols and consumer vigilance, as pets are at risk and humans are likely to face exposure.
The threat was revealed when Blue Ridge Beef recalled 5,700 pounds of raw dog food and warned consumers in eight states about Salmonella contamination.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an alert emphasizing the dangers, and pet owners are urged to check UPC 854298001054 and lot number N25/12/31.
The states involved in distribution include Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, and Rhode Island.
The recall came after routine safety checks revealed contamination, prompting immediate action by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and the FDA.
The presence of pathogens like Salmonella and Listeria in pet food not only threatens pets but also the humans who handle these products.
The FDA advises consumers to safely dispose of the affected food and thoroughly clean any exposed surfaces.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection in humans range from nausea and vomiting to more severe gastrointestinal distress.
Additionally, pets may show signs of fatigue, fever, and diarrhea. The FDA alerted that “infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans.”
The FDA reassured that “testing confirmed the product was contaminated with salmonella:”
“Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.”
In December, Blue Ridge Beef dealt with a similar situation when their Puppy Mix food was also recalled.
Consumers are urged not to resell or donate the contaminated product, ensuring it does not pose a risk to others.
In the meantime, the company has advised customers to return the product for refunds.
Customers must take precautions until full details are disclosed and monitor their pets for any alarming symptoms to ensure their health.
Consumers affected by this recall must act quickly due to the possible health consequences.
They can also contact Blue Ridge Beef for more information via email or phone to prioritize safety amid this unfortunate recall.
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