Dry Pet Food Recall Issued Due to Potential Salmonella Risk

A recall of dry pet food has been expanded after random sample testing confirmed the presence of Salmonella, posing a potential health risk for pets, as well as those who come in contact with the food. 

A Natura pet food recall expansion was announced by the FDA on March 29, after the Michigan Department of Agriculture and the Georgia Department of Agriculture detected Salmonella in additional dry food and treats for cats.

The original recall was announced in May 2012. While no cases of salmonella food poisoning have been reported in connection with the pet food, all products with similar manufacture dates that were sold by Natura Pet are being removed from the market to prevent the spread of the bacteria.

Pet owners are encouraged to check the pet food immediately because the infection could spread to humans if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after handling the food.

The recall consists of Natura brand names such as California Natural, Evo, Health Wise, Karma, and Innova, which were packaged in various sizes with expiration dates ranging from January 1, 2014 through March 24, 2014 for the pet food and July 1, 2013 through September 9, 2013 for cat treats. The recalled brands were sold through veterinary clinics and pet specialty retailers nationwide and in Costa Rica, Malaysia, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Canada and online.

For a full list of recalled Natura pet foods with packaging size and UPC Codes, visit the FDA’s recall notice.

If a pet has consumed Salmonella infected food, the animal may show symptoms such as decreased appetite, immobilization, diarrhea that may be bloody, vomiting and even fever. Pet owners noticing such symptoms should contact a veterinarian quickly because the animal can become a carrier and infect other animals and humans.

Salmonella poses a risk of serious illness, especially for young children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system.

Symptoms of salmonella poisoning can cause symptoms that include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which typically resolve in a few days or weeks for healthy individuals. However, if the bacteria enters the blood stream, possibly from young children putting their hands in their mouth after petting the animal, it can cause more severe side effects such as infected aneurysms, endocarditis, and arthritis.

In May of last year, Natura recalled its Natural Balance brand due to possible Salmonella contamination that was manufactured in South Carolina due and distributed throughout 40 states in the U.S. and Canada.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled pet foods should discard them immediately and contact Natura at (800) 224-6123 or visit them online at www.naturapet.com for information on refunds and replacement products.