RECALL UPDATE: FDA Warns Recalled Dog Food Should Be ‘Thrown Out or Destroyed’
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for several dog food products produced by Answers Pet Food, based in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, after they were found to be contaminated with harmful bacteria.
Contaminated Products
The recall involves various beef and chicken dog food products that tested positive for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes (L. mono). The FDA recommends that these products be “thrown out or destroyed in a way that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access it.” The withdrawn products are sold in 4-pound half-gallon cartons, both online and in stores nationwide, and include:
- Answers Pet Food Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs
UPC code: 856554002102
Best-by date: May 6, 2026 - Answers Pet Food Raw Beef Straight Formula for Dogs
UPC code: 856554002072
Best-by date: January 31, 2026 - Answers Pet Food Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs
UPC code: 856554002065
Best-by date: January 2, 2026 - Answers Pet Food Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs
UPC code: 856554002065
Best-by date: March 11, 2026
An Answers Pet Food spokesperson stated, “ANSWERS’ internal investigation found no research tying the alleged health problems reportedly suffered by the dogs in the complaint to the consumption of pet food alleged to contain pathogens. These lots of our products were distributed to many other end-users with no reported health complaints.” The spokesperson added that the company is unaware of any confirmed illnesses in humans or animals directly tied to the recalled product lots referenced in the September 23, 2024 FDA advisory.
Reason for Recall
In its advisory, the FDA cautioned pet owners that samples of two Answers Pet Food products tested positive for Salmonella, while a third product tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. A fourth product tested positive for both pathogens. The recall was initiated after the FDA received three consumer complaints of illness in dogs that consumed the affected products.
While no illnesses associated with these lots have been confirmed, the FDA warns that Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes can affect animals consuming the products, posing a risk to humans handling contaminated pet food, especially if proper hygiene is not followed.
Health Risks
Salmonella is commonly found in raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, meat, unpasteurized milk or juice, and raw fruits and vegetables. In humans, it can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Most people recover without treatment, but severe cases may require hospitalization.
Pets infected with Salmonella may not show symptoms but could exhibit signs such as vomiting, diarrhea (possibly bloody), fever, and loss of appetite. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a veterinarian promptly. Infected pets can shed the bacteria in their feces without showing signs of illness, increasing the risk of contamination.
Listeria monocytogenes can also cause serious illness and is found in raw and undercooked meats, unpasteurized dairy products, and ready-to-eat foods. While infections in pets are uncommon, they are possible and can lead to symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to severe complications, including death.
Consumer Guidelines
The FDA recommends disposing of the recalled products in a secure container and cleaning and disinfecting food storage containers, bowls, and other surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated food. Consumers should also clean up any pet feces in areas accessible to people or other animals and thoroughly wash their hands after handling the product or cleaning up potentially contaminated items.
For pet owners, being vigilant about food safety and monitoring for any signs of illness in their pets is crucial during this recall.
