Weston, OH-based Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of a specific lot of their Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food due to potential Salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The contamination was discovered through routine random testing conducted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture on June 18, 2024.
Distribution of the affected lot spans 16 states: Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
Product Details
- Product Name – Vita Prima Hedgehog Food
- Packaging – Yellow and white bag with a picture of a hedgehog
- Size – 25 ounces (708 grams)
- Lot Number – 417429
- UPC # – 0-87535-40060-4
- Expiration Date – October 18, 2025
Consumer Action
Consumers who have purchased the recalled product should discontinue use immediately. When handling the recalled food, it’s crucial to use gloves and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Customers can return unused portions to their place of purchase for a full refund.
Retailers and distributors have been notified and instructed to remove the affected lot from their inventories and shelves.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact Vitakraft Sun Seed’s Customer Service at 800-221-6175, Extension 123, weekdays from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM EST
Health Risks
As of now, no illnesses related to this recall have been reported. However, consumers should check with their healthcare providers if they have any concerns about potential Salmonella exposure and also monitor for any symptoms of infection.
Pet owners who suspect their hedgehogs have consumed the recalled food and are showing symptoms should consult their veterinarian promptly.
Salmonella poses risks to both animals consuming the product and humans handling it. Hedgehogs infected with Salmonella may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, bloody or mucoid diarrhea, weight loss, decreased appetite, and dehydration. In severe cases, the infection can be fatal. However, some infected hedgehogs may appear healthy while still capable of spreading the bacteria.
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.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “This recall is noteworthy because humans can be infected by Salmonella after handling contaminated pets, pet food, pet waste, or any surfaces exposed to the affected product. Any consumer with the contaminated food in their possession should handle it carefully while disposing of it or returning it to the place of purchase.”
