Lystn LLC, the company behind Answers Pet Food, has recently observed the recall of three canine diet lines after they were found to have been contaminated with harmful bacteria. As per the information provided by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency has received reports of the sample testing positive for the bacteria salmonella and listeria, which are both dangerous for animals and people.
Affected Products
The products included in the recall are:
- Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs
- Straight Beef Formula for Dogs
- Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs
These were sold in 4 lb. half-gallon cartons and were available both online and in retail stores. While no illnesses have been confirmed yet, Lystn LLC initiated this recall as a precautionary measure to protect both pets and their owners.
The Dangers of Salmonella and Listeria in Pet Food
Salmonella and Listeria are both capable of causing infections in both pets and people. Dogs, for instance, may ingest food containing either of these pathogens and develop vomiting, diarrhea (which may even be bloody), and fever. Still, some dogs might not experience these symptoms and just a reduced interest in food or abdominal discomfort; however, healthy pets can also remain asymptomatic carriers, exposing other animals and people to the disease.
Regarding humans, the mere act of handling contaminated animal food and not properly washing hands to remove bacteria can be a cause of infection. The manifestations for humans might include nausea with or without vomiting, abdominal cramps, watery stool, which may or may not be bloody, and fever. Special attention should also be paid to people whose immunity is compromised, such as the young, the elderly, and pregnant women since they are at the highest risk. Extra attention should also be drawn to those infections that can be very deadly, such as listeria, which brings about miscarriage.
How to Safely Dispose of Recalled Pet Food
If you have purchased any of the recalled products, the FDA strongly advises you to dispose of them immediately. Do not feed them to your pets. To prevent the spread of bacteria, the FDA recommends:
- Wearing gloves or using paper towels when handling the contaminated product.
- Disposing of the food in a sealed plastic bag.
- Sanitizing any surfaces that may have come in contact with the food, such as countertops, food bowls, and utensils.
This caution extends to any areas in your home where the contaminated food may have been prepared, served, or stored. Proper hygiene is critical to preventing infection, especially for households with vulnerable individuals or multiple pets.
Symptoms to Watch for in Dogs
While listeria is uncommon in dogs, it can still cause illness. Watch for vomiting and diarrhea, though the symptoms may be mild. Salmonella is more common and can lead to lethargy, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. If your pet shows any signs of illness after consuming the recalled food, contact your veterinarian immediately. Additionally, even if your dog appears healthy, they could still be a carrier of the bacteria and potentially infect humans or other pets.
Safety Precautions for Humans
If you are exposed to food containing salmonella or listeria, extra precautions should be exercised. For instance, if after handling the recalled pet food you develop diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or a fever, consult a medical professional. These signs, which may vary in intensity, can appear anywhere between six hours and six days following exposure, depending on one’s general health and natural defenses.
The highest risk categories—infants younger than five years, elderly adults aged over sixty-five years, and others with compromised immune systems—may also face more serious complications that may necessitate treatment or a hospital stay. In pregnant women, for instance, Listeria simplex may cause miscarriages and stillbirths.
Final Thoughts
The recent withdrawal of Answers Pet Food Products by Lystn LLC serves as a timely reminder of the need for the safety of pet food. If you have any of the products that are being recalled in your house, make sure to throw them out right away, as well as take measures to disinfect any respective surfaces. Given that pet owners and their pets are at risk of being exposed to foodborne bacteria such as salmonella and listeria, it is crucial to take measures to secure the home environment in the quickest possible time.
If you would like to learn more about the recall and how to beneficially contact your veterinarian regarding adverse effects, visit the FDA website.
