Blue Ridge Beef has issued a recall for nearly five tons of its Puppy Mix food due to potential Salmonella contamination, raising concerns for pet and human health alike.
At a Glance
- Blue Ridge Beef is recalling 9,600 pounds of Puppy Mix due to Salmonella contamination
- The recall affects two-pound logs with specific UPC and lot numbers
- Products were distributed in seven states during August 2024
- The recall was initiated after a customer’s puppies fell ill
- Both pets and humans are at risk from the contaminated product
Recall Details and Affected Products
Blue Ridge Beef, a company with over 40 years of experience in raw pet food production, has announced a significant recall of its Puppy Mix product. The recall encompasses 9,600 pounds of the pet food, affecting two-pound logs with UPC 854298001696 and lot numbers 08/06/N25 and 08/16/N25. The contaminated products were distributed between August 6 and August 23, 2024, in clear plastic packaging across seven states: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
The recall was prompted by a serious health concern. “Blue Ridge Beef is recalling 9,600 pounds of Puppy Mix sold in seven U.S. states after a customer reported their litter was sickened and testing confirmed the product was contaminated with salmonella,” the company stated. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) subsequently confirmed the presence of Salmonella in the product, leading to the recall announcement on December 2.
Blue Ridge Beef recalls puppy food that may be tainted with salmonella https://t.co/dm1kyTF0di
— FOX Business (@FoxBusiness) December 5, 2024
Health Risks and Precautions
The Salmonella contamination poses significant health risks to both animals and humans. According to the recall notice, the company “was notified by the FDA that these products tested positive” for Salmonella. The FDA has emphasized that the contamination “can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.”
“If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian,” the recall says. “Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to return to the place of purchase or destroy the food in a way that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access. Wash and sanitize pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers.”
Pet owners should be vigilant for symptoms in their animals, which may include lethargy, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Humans handling the contaminated products may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. The FDA strongly advises against feeding, selling, or donating the recalled Puppy Mix. Instead, consumers should return the product to the place of purchase or dispose of it safely.
