FDA Announces Recall of Dog Treats Across 19 States Due to Salmonella Risk

FDA Announces Recall of Dog Treats Across 19 States Due to Salmonella Risk

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a precautionary recall of 400 bags of Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips dog treats due to potential Salmonella contamination. Issued by Carolina Prime Pet, Inc., the recall affects specific products sold across 19 states and online, emphasizing the importance of pet safety.

Details of the Recalled Product

Affected Lot and Identification

Consumers can identify the impacted product by locating the following details on the packaging:

• Product Name: Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips
• Lot Number: 20051324L2
• Expiration Date: 11/13/2025
• Packaging: Purple-and-black design

If you purchased this product, stop usage immediately and follow the company’s guidelines for returns and refunds.

States Impacted by the Recall

The recall spans the Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic regions, including:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas

Additionally, the product was sold via the company’s online platform, making the recall applicable to online consumers as well.

Reason for the Recall

Routine quality control measures flagged a potential Salmonella contamination in a related but commercially unreleased batch of the same product. To ensure the safety of consumers and their pets, Carolina Prime Pet took proactive measures to recall the affected lot.

Risks of Salmonella Exposure

For Pets

Pets consuming contaminated treats may exhibit symptoms such as:

• Lethargy
• Diarrhea or bloody diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Abdominal pain

In some cases, infected pets may appear asymptomatic yet still spread Salmonella to other animals and humans.

For Humans

Handling contaminated pet treats can expose humans to Salmonella, resulting in:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever

Severe cases may lead to complications such as arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis.

What Should Consumers Do?

Immediate Actions

If you purchased the affected dog treats:

1. Discontinue Use: Stop feeding the treats to your pets.
2. Dispose Safely: Seal the treats and dispose of them securely to prevent exposure.
3. Contact the Manufacturer:
   • Email: [email protected]
   • Phone: 828-394-6460 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM EST)

Hygiene Tips

• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pet food or treats.
• Disinfect surfaces and utensils that may have come into contact with the contaminated product.

Preventing Future Risks

The FDA emphasizes the importance of regular quality control and pet owner vigilance. Pet owners are encouraged to monitor recalls and choose brands with robust safety protocols.

Salmonella in Pet Products: A Growing Concern

A 2024 review of FDA records highlights a concerning rise in pet product recalls related to contamination. This trend underscores the need for stricter manufacturing standards to protect both pets and their owners.

How to Safely Introduce Treats to Pets

When purchasing pet treats:

• Check Labels: Look for details like lot numbers and expiration dates.
• Research Brands: Opt for trusted manufacturers with a history of safety.
• Inspect Packaging: Avoid products with damaged or tampered packaging.

Final Thoughts

Carolina Prime Pet’s proactive recall reflects their commitment to pet safety. However, this incident serves as a reminder for pet owners to stay informed and vigilant about the products they choose. Ensuring pet health is a shared responsibility between manufacturers and consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I identify if my product is part of the recall?

Look for the lot number 20051324L2 and the expiration date of 11/13/2025 on the packaging.

2. What are the symptoms of Salmonella in pets?

Symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Consult a vet if you observe these signs.

3. Can humans get sick from handling the treats?

Yes, humans handling contaminated products risk exposure to Salmonella, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fever.

4. What precautions should I take when handling pet treats?

Always wash your hands after handling pet food or treats, and clean surfaces that may have come into contact with them.

References:

• FDA Announcement: FDA Pet Treat Recall
• News Source: Newsweek