Additional Coverage:
- Popular pet food sold in 5 US states recalled over Salmonella fears — return ASAP for refund (marketrealist.com)
Urgent Recall: Popular Dog Treats Pulled from Shelves in Five States Over Salmonella Concerns
Pet owners in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina are urged to check their pantries immediately as specific lots of Elite Treats Chicken Chips for Dogs have been recalled due to potential Salmonella contamination.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for one specific lot of Elite Treats Chicken Chips after independent third-party testing revealed the presence of Salmonella. While no illnesses in pets or humans have been reported to date, the potential for serious health issues has prompted this swift action.
The affected product is Elite Treats Chicken Chips for Dogs, Lot Number 24045, with an expiration date of April 2027. These treats were distributed by Florida Hardware to feed stores across the five aforementioned states.
What You Need to Know About Salmonella and Your Pet:
Salmonella infection, known as salmonellosis, can affect dogs, although symptoms may not be immediately apparent, especially in pets with robust immune systems. However, infected dogs can still shed the bacteria through their feces and saliva, posing a risk of transmission to other animals and humans. Experts highlight that raw meat diets can increase the risk of such infections.
If your pet has consumed the recalled product and exhibits symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a decreased appetite, contact your veterinarian without delay. Even pets that appear healthy can carry and spread the bacteria.
Protecting Yourself and Your Family:
The risk of Salmonella isn’t limited to pets. Humans can contract the bacteria through handling contaminated pet food, contact with infected pets, or touching contaminated surfaces like food bowls and utensils.
Symptoms in humans can include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea, and in severe cases, can lead to more serious conditions like arterial infections or urinary tract problems. Young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe infections.
The FDA stresses the importance of thorough hygiene:
- Wash and sanitize all pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers that may have come into contact with the recalled treats.
- Always wash and sanitize your hands thoroughly after handling pet food, especially any recalled products, and after touching any utensils or surfaces that have come into contact with them.
What to Do If You Have the Recalled Treats:
Consumers who have purchased the affected Elite Treats Chicken Chips for Dogs are advised to dispose of them safely to prevent access by children, pets, or wildlife. For information regarding refunds, affected customers can contact Elite Treats directly.
Anyone experiencing symptoms after exposure to the recalled product or an infected pet should seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.