Blue Ridge Beef has issued a recall for certain dog food products across eight states due to potential salmonella contamination. This action is crucial for pet owners to be aware of, as it impacts the health of both pets and their owners.
Which dog food products are being recalled?
The recall specifically targets the Breeders Choice 2-pound log dog food, identified by Lot# 8/2/24 and UPC 8 54298 00193 1. These products were distributed between August 9, 2023, and August 25, 2023, and were sold in clear plastic packaging. The affected states include Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Why is the recall happening?
The recall was initiated after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified Blue Ridge Beef on October 27, 2023, that a sample of the Breeders Choice dog food tested positive for salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and poses a 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.
What are the symptoms of salmonella in pets and humans?
In pets, salmonella infection may lead to symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets might only experience decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Even if your pet appears healthy, it can still carry the bacteria and potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and shows any of these signs, it’s important to contact your veterinarian promptly.
For humans, handling contaminated pet products can lead to salmonella infection. Symptoms to watch for include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. In some cases, more severe conditions can develop, such as arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms after handling the recalled dog food, it’s advisable to reach out to your healthcare provider.
What should you do if you have the recalled product?
If you’ve purchased the affected Breeders Choice 2-pound log dog food, here’s what you should do:
- Stop using the product immediately. Do not feed it to your pets or any other animals.
- Dispose of the product safely. Ensure that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access it.
- Clean and sanitize. Thoroughly wash and sanitize any pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers that may have come into contact with the recalled food.
- Practice good hygiene. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling pet food or any related utensils.
For a full refund or more information, you can contact Blue Ridge Beef directly at blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com or call (704) 880-4500, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm EST.
Has blue ridge beef had previous recalls?
Yes, Blue Ridge Beef has had previous recalls due to salmonella contamination. In December 2024, the company recalled 9,600 pounds of their 2-pound log Puppy Mix after a customer in Virginia reported their litter was sickened. Testing confirmed the product was contaminated with salmonella.
Additionally, in January 2025, Blue Ridge Beef recalled 1,350 pounds of their 2-pound log Kitten Mix due to salmonella contamination. This recall was initiated after a customer complaint of animal illness, and subsequent testing confirmed the presence of salmonella in the product.
These incidents highlight the importance of staying informed about pet food recalls and ensuring the safety of the products you provide to your pets.
How can you stay informed about pet food recalls?
To keep your pets safe, it’s essential to stay updated on pet food recalls. Here are some steps you can take:
- Regularly check official sources. Visit the FDA’s pet food recall page for the latest information on recalls and safety alerts.
- Sign up for alerts. Many organizations offer email notifications for pet food recalls. Subscribing to these can provide timely updates.
- Consult your veterinarian. They can offer guidance on safe pet food choices and inform you about any recent recalls.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your furry companions.
