Blue Ridge Beef, based in Statesville, North Carolina, has issued a voluntary recall of specific lots of its Puppy Mix due to potential Salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections in animals and humans, especially those in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The problem was discovered when a customer reported that a litter of puppies became ill and reported the incident to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The company said it was notified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on November 27, 2024 that the product had tested positive for Salmonella.
Distribution
The products were distributed primarily to retail stores in Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Product Details
- Brand – Blue Ridge Beef
- Product – Puppy Mix
- Size – 2 lb frozen log
- Packaging – Clear plastic
- UPC Code – 854298001696
- Lot Numbers – 08/06/N25 and 08/16/N25
- Distribution Dates – August 6, 2024 to August 23, 2024
Consumer Action
Consumers should check their freezers for the recalled products.
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected products even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface, utensils, pet food bowls, or containers that have come into contact with the impacted products.
Consumers can return the recalled items to the point of purchase or should dispose of them and ensure that they are inaccessible to humans, children, pets, and wildlife.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact the company by phone at 704-873-2072 or via email at [email protected].
Health Risks
The recall notice did not say if there have been any reported illnesses or injuries in humans in association with the consumption of the recalled dog food. However, any consumers who are experiencing symptoms after contact with the affected product should contact their medical provider. Pet owners should contact their veterinarian if their dog has consumed any of the recalled food, whether they are displaying symptoms or not.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria. While most people recover without specific treatment, the infection can be severe, especially for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Pets infected with Salmonella can show symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, and vomiting. Some pets might only display a reduced appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Even if they appear healthy, infected pets can still carry the bacteria and spread it to other animals or humans.
Commenting on this story, one national Salmonella lawyer said, “Owners can be infected with Salmonella after handling contaminated pet food or pet food bowls. Any consumer with the recalled dog food should thoroughly wash their hands after touching it or any items it has touched to reduce their risk of infection.”
