A voluntary recall has been expanded by Blue Ridge Beef pet food company after traces of Salmonella and Listeria were found in their products, raising concerns for the health of pets and their owners.
The initial recall last month included 2 lb Kitten Grind, 2 lb log of Kitten Mix, and 2 lb log of Puppy Mix. However, as per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the company was recently notified by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services that a lot of each of the products tested positive for salmonella and listeria monocytogenes.
While the recalled products were primarily sold in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, the company has now identified 16 states where the products were distributed. These states include Connecticut, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Michigan, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin. The products were packaged in clear plastic and sold primarily in retail stores in these states.
Experts recommend thoroughly washing hands after handling contaminated pet products and cleaning any surfaces that may have come in contact with the products. Symptoms of salmonella and listeria infection in humans include nausea, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. Infection poses a risk to both pets and people, with humans becoming infected through handling of the contaminated pet products.
According to Blue Ridge Beef, there have been no reported illnesses connected to the recalled products to date. However, as a precautionary measure, the company is recalling all affected products distributed between Nov. 14, 2023 and Dec. 20, 2023. Consumers are urged to check their pet food products and immediately stop feeding them to their pets if they have any of the recalled items. The company also advises consumers to dispose of the products in a way that prevents children, pets, and wildlife from accessing them.
For a full refund, consumers can contact Blue Ridge Beef at blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com. Any additional questions can be directed to Steven Lea with Blue Ridge Beef at (704) 880-4500 Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm EST. The company also recommends thoroughly washing and sanitizing any pet food bowls, cups, utensils, and storage containers that may have come in contact with the recalled products.
Salmonella and Listeria are bacterial infections that can affect both pets and humans. According to experts, symptoms of infection can range from mild to severe, and pets can also carry the bacteria without showing any symptoms. In some cases, pets may suffer from reduced appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. The bacteria can also be spread through contact with contaminated feces of infected animals.
This is not the first time Blue Ridge Beef has issued a recall for its products due to concerns over bacterial contamination. In 2018, the company recalled two frozen pet food products after a sample tested positive for Salmonella. At that time, the recall included both raw frozen pet food and pet food with raw bone. While the company has not released information on how the current contamination may have occurred, they have assured consumers that they are working closely with the FDA to fully investigate the issue.
As more and more people opt for raw and natural diets for their pets, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with these kinds of diets. Bacterial contamination is a significant concern when handling raw meat products, and pet owners are advised to follow proper hygiene practices to limit the risk of infection. The FDA also recommends that consumers talk to their veterinarians before choosing a raw or natural diet for their pets.
