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Blue Ridge Beef is voluntarily recalling more than 1,000 pounds of puppy and kitten food over concerns of salmonella and listeria contamination, according to an April 11 recall notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The recall was initiated after an animal illness complaint, with subsequent laboratory tests showing the presence of the bacteria in product samples. Affected pet food was sold in nine states, including Wisconsin.
The risk of potential salmonella or listeria infection can extend beyond pets that may consume the contaminated food. “Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans,” the notice said.
Consumers should monitor for symptoms in themselves and their pets, and contact the appropriate healthcare provider if necessary.
You can read the full recall notice on the FDA’s website.
The Statesville, North Carolina-based pet food manufacturer has issued several other recalls related to salmonella contamination in recent months.
Here’s what to know:
What Blue Ridge Beef products are being recalled?
Recalled products were distributed to retail stores in affected states from Jan. 3 to Jan. 24. The products were sold in clear packaging, with lot numbers at the end of bags.
Here’s how you can identify the recalled pet food:
| Product name | Size | Lot number |
| Blue Ridge Beef Puppy Mix | 2 lb. | N25 1230 |
| Blue Ridge Beef Kitten Mix | 2 lb. | N26 0114 |
What states are included in the Blue Ridge Beef recall?
Aside from Wisconsin, affected products were shipped to eight other states, including:
- Virginia
- Maryland
- Pennsylvania
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- New York
- Tennessee
- Rhode Island
What is salmonella?
Salmonella are a bacteria which can cause the foodborne bacterial illness salmonellosis, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.
While salmonella infections are uncommon in dogs and cats, puppies and kittens are more likely to show symptoms of the illness, according to the FDA. They can spread the bacteria through stool and saliva. Here are some common symptoms:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Decreased activity levels
What is listeria?
Like salmonella, listeria infections are uncommon in dogs and cats, though the animals can be carriers.
In cases of infection, pets typically only experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms, the FDA says. However, more serious symptoms can include fever, breathing problems and death.
What should I do if I have a recalled product?
Consumers are urged to destroy recalled products or return them to point of purchase. Products should not be sold or donated.
The company also urges consumers to wash and sanitize any pet food products, such as bowls and storage containers. Hands should be washed thoroughly when dealing with potentially exposed surfaces and products.
For more information, consumers can reach Blue Ridge Beef by emailing [email protected] or calling 704-873-2072 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST on Monday through Friday.
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