Salmonella Contamination Affects 7 States

According to Newsweek , Blue Ridge Beef has announced a recall of its 2-pound packages of Puppy Mix dog food after the product was found to be contaminated with Salmonella. The recall affects frozen logs of the Puppy Mix, labeled as “natural pet food” and intended to be kept frozen until ready for use.

The recalled Puppy Mix was distributed between August 6 and August 23 to the following states: Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. The affected products have the UPC number “854298001696” and are marked with the lot numbers “08/06/N25” or “08/16/N25.”

Salmonella can cause illness in pets consuming the contaminated food, and there is also a risk to humans who handle the product, particularly if they do not wash their hands thoroughly after contact. Symptoms of Salmonella infection in pets include lethargy, diarrhea (including bloody diarrhea), fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Pets infected with Salmonella may also act as carriers and can spread the bacteria to other animals or humans.

The recall was prompted after the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services informed Blue Ridge Beef that a litter of puppies became ill after consuming the product. While no other illnesses have been reported, pet owners are advised to contact their veterinarian if their pet exhibits symptoms.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled Puppy Mix are urged not to allow their pets to consume it and to return the product to the point of purchase or dispose of it in a way that prevents access by children, pets, or wildlife.

Salmonella is a serious public health concern, as it can infect various animal species, including pets, and can be transmitted to humans. In people, Salmonella infection, known as salmonellosis, typically causes symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and fever. While severe cases are rare, they can occur in vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.