Viva Raw Issues Voluntary Recall of Dog and Cat Food Including Select Viva Turkey Recipes (Lot 21244) Due to Potential Listeria Monocytogenes Health Risk to People and Pets

Company Announcement Date: July 01, 2024
FDA Publish Date: July 01, 2024
Product Type: Animal & Veterinary, Food & Beverages, Animal Feed, Foodborne Illness
Reason for Announcement: Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name: Viva Raw, LLC
Brand Name: Viva
Product Description: Raw dog and cat food

Product Photos:

Ground Turkey:

Turkey:

Chunked Turkey:

Beef & Turkey:

Turkey:

Company Announcement:

July 1, 2024 – Viva Raw LLC, Hillsborough, NC is voluntarily recalling dog and cat foods, including the Viva Turkey for Dogs Ground, Viva Turkey for Dogs Chunked, Viva Turkey for Cats, Viva Pure Turkey, and Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies all manufactured under Lot 21244 because this lot, which includes these five products are contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and is a potential health risk to people and pets.

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in pets eating contaminated products. People can become exposed to this pathogen through multiple routes such as handling the contaminated products, contact with pets that have eaten contaminated products and/or contact with surfaces that have touched contaminated food, such as bowls, utensils, or countertops. Risk of human illness from Listeria monocytogenes contaminated pet food increases if people do not thoroughly wash their hands after handling the food or having contact with their pet, or by not thoroughly cleaning contaminated surfaces.

Healthy people infected with Listeria monocytogenes may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, aches, fever and diarrhea. Listeria monocytogenes infections can spread through the bloodstream to the nervous system (including the brain), resulting in meningitis and other potentially fatal illnesses. Pregnant women are especially susceptible to Listeria infection, which can result in miscarriage. The young, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems are more vulnerable to infection. People exhibiting signs of Listeria monocytogenes infection after having contact with recalled product(s) or a pet that has eaten recalled product(s) should contact their healthcare providers.

Listeria monocytogenes illnesses in pets are rare, and infected pets may display symptoms such as mild to severe diarrhea, anorexia, fever, nervous, muscular and respiratory signs, miscarriage, depression, shock and death. Pets exposed to contaminated food can be infected without showing symptoms. Infected pets, even if they do not show symptoms, can act as carriers and transfer L. monocytogenes through their feces and saliva into the home environment and to people and other pets in the household. If your pet has eaten the recalled product(s) and has symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes infection, please contact your veterinarian.

The products were distributed directly to consumers in all fifty states and the District of Columbia.

Only products from Lot 21244 are affected, Viva Raw is notifying all customers who were shipped any Turkey or Beef & Turkey for Puppies products between May 16th and June 28th, 2024.

No illnesses related to this lot have been reported to date.

The product is distributed as frozen 1 lb bricks in clear vacuum packaging. Please see the attached example of product labels. There are no expiration dates for these products.

Products matching the specific lot number below are being recalled:

The issue was discovered during a facility inspection conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and The North Carolina Department of Agriculture (NCDA). The FDA tested samples of Viva Turkey for Dogs and found samples from Lot 21244 were positive for Listeria monocytogenes. All products produced in Lot 21244 were slated for destruction. However, we have since learned some of the product from this lot was inadvertently released from the warehouse.

If you find that you have products from Lot 21244, please contact Viva Raw at info@vivarawpets.com for a refund on any remaining product—you should then destroy the food in a way that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access. Do not feed the recalled product to pets or any other animals.

FDA recommends humans do not touch the contaminated food product with bare hands. While wearing gloves or using paper towels, place the contaminated food in a sealed plastic bag and throw it in the garbage. Areas that may have come in contact with the contaminated product should be sanitized. Do not sell or donate the recalled products..

If you have any questions, please email us at info@vivarawpets.com or call/text us at (919) 371-8882 between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm EST Monday to Friday.

You can also read this release on the FDA website here

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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

• Phone: 704-880-4500
• Email: blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com

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

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RECALL ALERT – H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food

TFP Nutrition has issued a voluntary recall of their 16 lb. bags of H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food. One lot of H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food sold in 16 lbs. bags has been voluntarily recalled due to potential salmonella contamination.

The voluntary recall covers bags of H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food manufactured on Nov. 13, 2022, at the company’s facility in Nacogdoches, Texas. The affected lot was distributed only in Texas and sold only at H-E-B retail stores. Please be aware only this one lot of H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food and no other TFP Nutrition products are involved in this recall.

Photo: petful.com

If H-E-B cat food is the brand of choice in your home, check the bottom of your 16 lbs. bags of H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food to see if your bag matches the impacted lot. Here is the info you’re looking for on the bottom of the bag:

• Look for the “MFG 13 NOV 22” code on the second line of the lot code located on the back of the bag.

If you have one of the affected bags, stop feeding your cats this H-E-B product immediately and monitor for any symptoms of salmonella illness in cats.

Symptoms of Salmonella in Cats

Salmonella poisoning in cats presents with symptoms of fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Symptoms generally begin 12 to 72 hours after exposure. Contact your vet if any illness symptoms develop.

Also, be aware contact with salmonella-tainted products can sicken humans as well. Practice safe food handling procedures when disposing of possibly-tainted food. Wash hands, and disinfect countertops and food bowls. Dispose of food and trash bags in outside receptacles secured from pilfering outdoor animals. We don’t want stray and feral cats or other wildlife to fall ill either.

Safety is Number One

Again, the recall is voluntary, but salmonella concerns are always taken seriously. TFP Nutrition recalled H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food to keep cats and their loyal human customer as safe and healthy as possible. If your cat food is involved in the recall, safely dispose of the food and wash hands and all surfaces food has come into contact with.

For a replacement product, contact TFP Nutrition at 1-800-560-9197 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST. You can also call with concerns and questions or if you need to report illness. You can also visit the H-E-B website for more information.

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Two recalls have been issued for dog and cat food products from two different companies. These recalls have been issued for separate reasons.

First, Sunshine Mills, Inc. has issued a voluntary recall of certain dog food products due to the potential for elevated levels of Aflatoxin, a naturally occurring by-product resulting from the growth of Aspergillus flavus, a corn mold which can be harmful to animals when consumed in significant quantities. Earlier this year, Sunshine Mills issued food recalls over Aflatoxin contamination after the death of 70 dogs. It is important to note in this recall of six Sunshine Mills food brands, there have been no illnesses reported. The recall is voluntary and meant to ensure the safety of their customers.

Secondly, earlier in the month, 3 oz. cans of Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Tuna Entrée in Sauce Wet Cat Food were recalled over fears they may contain pieces of plastic.

Sunshine Mills Recalls Six Brands Over Potential Aflatoxin Growth

With levels of Aflatoxin possibly exceeding the acceptable limit, Sunshine Foods, Inc. is working in coordination with the FDA regarding the voluntary recall of the following six brands and the sizes and lot codes involved. Affected products were distributed nationally and retail stores who received affected products have already been notified with the request to remove them from shelves.

There are no other Triumph®, Evolve®, Wild Harvest®, Nurture Farms®, Pure Being®, or Elm products involved in this recall. Check your packaging for the following information:

Triumph:

• Triumph Wild Spirit Craft Dog Food Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 3.5 lbs., UPC #073657 008736, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TD2 11/Feb/2021
• Triumph Wild Spirit Craft Dog Food Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 30 lbs., UPC #073657 008750, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TA2 11/Feb/2021

Image Courtesy of Petful.com

Evolve:

• Evolve Classic Super Premium Food for Dogs Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 15 lbs., UPC #073657 008750, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TA1 11/Feb/2021
• Evolve Classic Super Premium Food for Dogs Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 15 lbs., UPC #073657 008750, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TA2 11/Feb/2021
• Evolve Classic Super Premium Food for Dogs Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 30 lbs., UPC #073657 380313, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TA2 11/Feb/2021

Image Courtesy of Petful.com

Wild Harvest:

• Wild Harvest Premium Dog Food Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 14 lbs., UPC #711535 509523, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TA2 11/Feb/2021

Image Courtesy of Petful.com

Nurture Farms:

• Nurture Farms Natural Dog Food Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 15 lbs., UPC #070155 113597, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TA2 11/Feb/2021
• Heart to Tail Pure Being:
• Heart to Tail Pure Being Natural Dog Food Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 5 lbs., UPC #4099100129441, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TD2 11/Feb/2021

Image Courtesy of Petful.com

Heart to Tail Pure Being:

• Heart to Tail Pure Being Natural Dog Food Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 5 lbs., UPC #4099100129441, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TD2 11/Feb/2021

Image Courtesy of Petful.com

Elm:

• Elm Pet Foods Naturals Chicken & Rice Recipe Dog Food, 40 lbs., UPC #070155 225221, best by Feb. 11, 2022, Lot Code TA1 11/Feb/2021

Image Courtesy of Petful.com

This recall is not related to Sunshine Mills products involved in the January 2021 recall of Aflatoxin-contaminated products that killed 70 dogs. If you have any of the products listed above, discontinue use of the product and return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Customers can contact Sunshine Mills, Inc. customer service at (800) 705-2111 from 7AM to 4PM Central Time, Monday through Friday, or by email: customer.service@sunshinemills.com for additional information.

Symptoms of Aflatoxin Poisoning

While there have been no illnesses reported, keep an eye out for these symptoms of Aflatoxin Poisoning as given by the FDA:

• Sluggishness
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowish tint to the eyes, gums or skin due to liver damage)
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Diarrhea
• Blood clotting, long-term liver problems, and/or death if exposure is prolonged.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if any symptoms occur.

Nestlé Purina PetCare Recalls One Lot of Canned Cat Food

Nestlé Purina PetCare has recalled one lot of 3 oz. cans of Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Tuna Entrée in Sauce Wet Cat Food in what they are calling “an abundance of caution” due to potential contamination of “black flexible plastic pieces which could pose a choking hazard if swallowed.” Sold at pet specialty, farm/feed and online retailers in the United States only, retailers have been contacted and asked to remove products from shelves.

To find out if your cans are involved, look for the following information on the bottom of cans:

• Consumer UPC 38100-11197
• Best By: JUN2023
• Lot Production Code: 11621160

Image Courtesy of Petful.com

Only this particular production lot is included in the recall. Nestlé Purina PetCare advises consumers to discard the involved products to prevent injury and illness. Contact them by phone at 1- 866-979-2478 with questions or to report your products and they will replace them. You can also visit https://www.proplantunaentreerecall.com/ to learn more.

H/T: www.petful.com

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In conjunction with the Food & Drug Administration, Natural Balance Pet Foods, Inc. of San Diego, CA, has issued a voluntary recall for Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Chicken Formula Dry Cat Food due to Salmonella concerns.

The recall covers both 5 lbs. and 10 lbs. bags which were available for purchase online and in-stores nationwide.

Image via Amazon.com

If this is the brand of choice in your home, please check the back panel of your Natural Balance bags to see if your product is included in the recall.

• 5 LB Bag, Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Chicken Formula Dry Cat Food
  • Retail UPC Code: 2363300233
  • Lot Code: 1008080 06:42N811202:20
  • Best If Used by Date: 10-Mar-2022
• 10 LB Bag, Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Chicken Formula Dry Cat Food
  • Retail UPC Code: 2363300235
  • Lot Code: 1008080 06:42N811202:20
  • Best If Used by Date: 10-Mar-2022

Image: FDA.gov

If you have compromised product, stop feeding it to your cats immediately. Dispose of bags or return them to the retailer for a refund. The 5 lbs. and 10 lbs. bags of Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Chicken Formula Dry Cat Food are the only products involved in the recall.

Image: FDA.gov

Image: FDA.gov

Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning in Cats

While there have been no customer reports regarding adverse reactions in cats, this voluntary recall was issued after a routine state surveillance sample by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture discovered possible salmonella contamination.

Salmonella poisoning in cats presents with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, decreased appetite, or excessive salivation.  Symptoms generally begin 12 to 72 hours after exposure. Isolate ill cats to keep salmonella from spreading in the home. Contact your vet if any symptoms develop.

The FDA also warns, “Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms.”

Also, be aware contact with salmonella-tainted products can sicken humans as well. Practice safe food handling procedures when disposing of the possibly tainted food. Wash your hands thoroughly and disinfect countertops and food bowls. Dispose of food and trash bags in outside receptacles that are secured from pilfering outdoor animals. We don’t want stray and feral cats or other wildlife to fall ill either.

Health and Well-Being Above All Else

Natural Balance wants their customers to know, “The health and well-being of the pets that enjoy our Natural Balance pet foods is our priority. Our company and our team take seriously our responsibility to provide safe, wholesome, nutritious pet foods for dogs and cats.”

If you have concerns, questions, or need to report illness, call 1-833-558-0908, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. PST, or visit www.naturalbalanceinc.com/contact-us.

H/T: www.petful.com

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RECALL ALERT – Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food

The J.M. Smucker Company has issued a limited, voluntary recall on two of their extremely popular Meow Mix® brand dry foods.

Two lots of Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food sold in 30 lbs. bags have been voluntarily recalled due to a potential salmonella contamination. The Meow Mix® bags were sold at Walmart stores in these states:

• Illinois
• Missouri
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• Oklahoma
• Utah,
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Please be aware, only these two lots of Original Choice dry cat food and no other Meow Mix® products are involved in this recall.

The J. M. Smucker Co. Issues Limited, Voluntary Recall of Two Lots of Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food for Potential Salmonella Contamination

The J. M. Smucker Co. Issues Limited, Voluntary Recall of Two Lots of Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food for Potential Salmonella Contamination

If Meow Mix® is the brand of choice in your home, check the bottom of your 30 lbs. bags of Meow Mix® Original Choice dry food to see if your bag matches the impacted lots. Here is the info you’re looking for on the bottom of the bag:

• Meow Mix® Original Choice 30 lbs., UPC code 2927452099, Lot Number 1081804, Best if Used by Date: 9/14/22
• Meow Mix® Original Choice 30 lbs., UPC code 2927452099, Lot Number 1082804, Best if Used by Date: 9/15/22

Stop feeding your cats this product immediately and monitor for any symptoms of salmonella illness in cats.

The J. M. Smucker Co. Issues Limited, Voluntary Recall of Two Lots of Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food for Potential Salmonella Contamination

Symptoms of Salmonella in Cats

Salmonella poisoning in cats presents with symptoms of fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Symptoms generally begin 12 to 72 hours after exposure. Contact your vet if any illness symptoms develop.

The J.M. Smucker Company does want consumers to be aware, “Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms.”

Also, be aware contact with salmonella-tainted products can sicken humans as well. Practice safe food handling procedures when disposing of the possibly tainted food. Wash hands, disinfect countertops and food bowls. Dispose of food and trash bags in outside receptacles that are secured from pilfering outdoor animals. We don’t want stray and feral cats or other wildlife to fall ill either.

Voluntary Recall as Safety is Number One

Again, the recall is voluntary, but salmonella concerns are always taken seriously. The J.M. Smucker Company and Meow Mix® issued the recall to keep cats and their loyal human customer as safe and healthy as possible. The J.M. Smucker Company and Meow Mix® tout their safety and quality standards as keeping people and animals safe is a main priority.

If you have concerns or need to report illness, cat parents can call 1-888-569-6728, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET or visit www.meowmix.com/contact-us.  

H/T: www.petful.com 
Feature Image: www.prnewswire.com via J.M. Smucker Company and MeowMix®

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Halo Purely for Pets announced a voluntary recall of its Spot’s Stew Wholesome Turkey Recipe Sensitive Formula for Cats due to reports of mold.

No other Halo products were affected.

Affected Product

Spot’s Stew Wholesome Turkey Recipe Sensitive Formula for Cats

• 3lbs and 6lbs bags
• Best By Date 09/04/2016
• UPCs 745158350231 and 745158340232

What to Watch For

Digestive issues may occur if your pet ingested mold. Should you see any digestive upset in your cat, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

If You Have Product

Discontinue use and return food to your retailer for a full refund or replacement. For more information, contact Halo Customer Care at 800.426.4256 Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST, or email customers@halopets.com or visit www.halopets.com.

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Updated July 6, 2015

What started out last Thursday as a one-product recall has expanded into a 20-product recall.

Stella & Chewy has decided to voluntarily recall all products that were from the original lot (#111-15) that the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) had issued a stop sale order on. They are doing this as a “precautionary measure” – no pet or human illnesses have been reported so far.

Effected Product

Originally,  the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) had issued a stop sale order on just Stella and Chewy’s freeze dried chicken patties dog food, which has tested positive of Listeria monocytogenes. These had lot number 111-15 and a use by date of April 23, 2016.

The new list includes all of the following products from the same Lot, 111-15:

Product Description/Size/UPC/Lot #/Use By Date

• Freeze-Dried Chewy’s Chicken Dinner for Dogs /15oz/UPC: 186011000045/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 4/23/2016
• Freeze-Dried Chewy’s Chicken Dinner for Dogs /15oz/UPC: 186011000045/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 4/26/2016
• Freeze-Dried Chick, Chick, Chicken Dinner for Cats/12oz/UPC: 186011000434/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 4/29/2016
• Freeze-Dried Chick, Chick, Chicken Dinner for Cats/12oz/UPC: 186011000434/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 5/3/2016
• Carnivore Crunch – Turkey Recipe/3.25oz/UPC: 186011001103/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 5/3/2016 and 5/4/2016
• Frozen Duck Duck Goose Dinner Morsels for Dogs/4lb/UPC: 186011001394/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 4/21/2016
• Frozen Chewy’s Chicken Dinner Morsels for Dogs/4lb/UPC: 186011001387/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 4/21/2016
• Frozen Surf ‘N Turf Dinner Patties for Dogs/6lb/UPC: 186011000533/Lot: 111-15  and Use By Date: 4/21/2016
• Frozen Chewy’s Chicken Dinner Patties for Dogs/6lb/UPC: 186011000120/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 4/21/2016
• Frozen Chewy’s Chicken Dinner Patties for Dogs/3lb/UPC: 186011000038/Lot: 111-15 and Use By Date: 4/21/2016

In addition, Stella & Chewy’s says “In an abundance of caution, we are also recalling the following products which may have come into contact with the affected lot.” These products HAVE NOT tested positive for L. monocytogenes.

Product Description/Size/UPC/Lot #/Use By Date

• Freeze-Dried Chick, Chick, Chicken Dinner for Cats/12oz/UPC: 186011000434/Lot: 104-15 and Use By Date: 4/23/2016
• Freeze-Dried Chick, Chick, Chicken Dinner for Cats/12oz/UPC: 186011000434/Lot: 109-15 and Use By Date: 4/29/2016
• Freeze-Dried Tantalizing Turkey Meal Mixers/18oz/UPC: 186011000229/Lot: 105-15 and Use By Date: 5/3/2016
• Freeze-Dried Tantalizing Turkey Meal Mixers/18oz/UPC: 186011000229/Lot: 113-15 and Use By Date: 5/3/2016
• Freeze-Dried Tantalizing Turkey Meal Mixers/9oz/UPC: 186011000205/Lot: 105-15 and Use By Date: 5/3/2016
• Carnivore Crunch – Chicken Recipe/3.25oz/UPC: 186011001080/Lot: 110-15 and Use By Date: 5/3/2016
• Freeze-Dried Chewy’s Chicken Dinners for Dogs/15oz/UPC: 186011000045/Lot: 114-15 and Use By Date: 4/26/2016
• Freeze-Dried Tummy Ticklin’ Turkey Dinner for Cats/12oz/UPC: 186011000663/Lot: 114-15 and Use By Date: 5/4/2016
• Freeze-Dried Tummy Ticklin’ Turkey Dinner for Cats/12oz/UPC: 186011000663/Lot: 115-15 and Use By Date: 5/4/2016
• Freeze-Dried Salmon & Chicken Dinner for Cats/12 oz/UPC: 186011000403/Lot: 107-15 and Use By Date: 4/23/2016

Product Distribution

According to their website, These products were sold throughout the U.S. to wholesale and retail. They were NOT sold in Canada.

Listeria Risks

Listeria is not only dangerous to dogs, it can also be deadly to small children, the elderly and those with auto immune disorders.  Pregnant when are twenty times more susceptible to the disease. For them, the only symptom may be a fever.

Symptoms to watch for in people:

• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Convulsions
• Fever
• Muscle aches

According to the FDA, “Although L. monocytogenes can infect many animal species, dogs and cats rarely get listeriosis and they usually don’t show signs of disease.”

However, Stella & Chewy’s website says, “Animals that become ill with Listeria could display symptoms similar to the ones listed above for humans.” So watch your pet for any signs of illness and take them to the vet to be safe.

Consumers who have unopened bags of this dog food are urged to keep it sealed, away from people and to throw it away. Those who have opened bags of this dog food are urged to use disposable gloves, place them in double plastic bags, seal it and throw it away.

MDA has notified all distributors and a number of stores known to sell the product. The listeria was identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration which is undertaking a surveillance of raw pet food. The FDA notified the state today.

Consumers can also contact the Stella & Chewy Customer Service Team with any questions at info@stellaandchewys.com or 888.477.8977.

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The FDA reports that Ainsworth Pet Nutrition of Meadville, PA is voluntarily recalling five varieties of Rachael Ray Nutrish® wet cat food, including Ocean Fish-a-licious, Lip Smackin’ Sardine & Mackerel, Ocean Fish & Chicken Catch-iatore, Tuna Purrfection, and certain lot codes of Paw Lickin’ Chicken & Liver due to potentially elevated levels of vitamin D.

To date, there have been 11 reports of illness associated with these products.

Recalled Product

Two variety packs that contain some of these recalled products (the Chicken Lovers Variety Pack and the Ocean Lovers Variety Pack) will also be recalled. The recalled products are distributed nationwide. No other Rachael Ray Nutrish® products are affected by this recall.

Image source: FDA

The UPC code can be found on the bottom of the cup. The “Best By” advisory label can be found on the side of the cup.

Image source: FDA

Production of the affected varieties has been suspended and will resume after reformulation.

Image source: FDA

Image source: FDA

Image source: FDA

Image source: FDA

Image source: FDA

Image source: FDA

Image source: FDA

Vitamin D Poisoning

Vitamin D is important in regulating calcium and phosphorus in a cat’s body. But, when ingested at very high levels, it can lead to serious health issues.

Symptoms of excessive vitamin D consumption usually develop within 12-36 hours after ingestion and may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased thirst and urination
• Muscle tremors
• Seizures

Any cat experiencing these symptoms should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.

After conducting a number of product tests, Ainsworth confirmed that the affected products have elevated levels of vitamin D. The high levels result from the natural levels of vitamin D that are found in some of the fish ingredients that were used in these specific formulas.

“At Ainsworth Pet Nutrition and Rachael Ray Nutrish®, the safety and quality of our products is our top priority,” says Jeff Watters, CEO. “For the time being, we recommend disposing of any of the affected wet cat varieties. Rest assured we have implemented additional operating procedures to prevent an issue like this from occurring in the future. We sincerely apologize to our loyal consumers everywhere.”

Ainsworth is working to ensure the removal of all affected products from store shelves. Retailers with affected products are asked to contact 888-943-4218 for additional information.

Consumers with questions about the recall are encouraged to contact Ainsworth’s Consumer Care Team at 877-650-3486 or visit www.nutrishforpets.com/news.

Representatives will be available from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. ET Monday thru Friday and 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET Saturday and Sunday.

The post BREAKING NEWS – Ainsworth Pet Nutrition Voluntarily Recalls Five Nutrish Wet Cat Food Varieties For Elevated Vitamin D Levels appeared first on iHeartCats.com.