RECALL ALERT: Popular Cat and Dog Food Recalled for Salmonella and Listeria

Maker: Blue Ridge Beef
Date of Announcement: December 22, 2023
Announcement: FDA recall announcement dated December 22, 2023
Cause: Salmonella contamination and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Manufacturer: Blue Ridge Beef Reason for Recall: Potential contamination with Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Official Announcement: Released by the FDA on December 22, 2023

The following products with specific UPCs have been recalled:

• Kitten Grind (2 lb log, UPC: 8 54298 00101 6)
• Kitten Mix (2 lb log, UPC: 8 54298 00143 6)
• Puppy Mix (2 lb log, UPC: 8 54298 00169 6)

This recall, initiated by Blue Ridge Beef, extends their previous voluntary recall from October 27, 2023, and has been verified by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Notably, no illnesses related to these products have been reported to date.

The Risks of Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes

Salmonella Risks:

• For Humans: Infection can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and in rare cases, more severe complications.
• For Pets: Symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and appetite loss. Even asymptomatic pets can be carriers.

Listeria Monocytogenes Risks:

• For Humans: Listeriosis can cause severe symptoms, particularly in vulnerable groups, with risks like meningitis, miscarriages, and neurological effects.
• For Cats: Symptoms include gastrointestinal and neurological issues, and potentially fatal septicemia.
• For Dogs: Milder symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, but can escalate to more severe infections.

Preventive Measures and Treatment

• Good Hygiene: Proper hand and surface washing after handling raw food is essential.
• Safe Food Handling: Cooking meat thoroughly and avoiding certain dairy products.
• Prompt Medical and Veterinary Care: Immediate attention for anyone or any pet showing symptoms.

Distribution and Consumer Guidance The potentially affected products, distributed between November 14 and December 24, 2023, were available in several states, including Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

Consumers with these products should contact Blue Ridge Beef for a refund or dispose of them safely. It’s important not to sell, donate, or feed the recalled products to any animals.

For queries, consumers can contact Mr. Steven Lea at (704) 880-4500 during business hours. This recall demonstrates Blue Ridge Beef’s dedication to pet and owner safety, in cooperation with the FDA.

Contact Information for Blue Ridge Beef

For more information, see the read the full report on the US Food and Drug Administation site.