2012 Salmonella Infections Linked to Dry Dog Food – Consumer Advice
Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Infantis Infections Linked to Dry Dog Food (Final Update)
Posted July 18, 2012 6:00 PM ET
Salmonella is an important cause of human illness in the United States. More information about Salmonella, and steps people can take to reduce their risk of infection, can be found on the CDC Salmonella Web Page and the CDC Vital Signs Web Page.
Recall
Multiple brands of dry pet food produced by Diamond Pet Foods at a single manufacturing facility in Gaston, South Carolina have been linked with human illnesses. Diamond Pet Foods has expanded its recall of some brands of dry dog and cat food manufactured in this facility.
More information on the recalled products, including production codes, and distribution information, can be found on:
- FDA Animal & Veterinary: Recalls & Withdrawals
- FDA Diamond Pet Foods Expands Voluntary Recall of Dry Pet Food Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
Advice to Consumers
- Consumers should check their homes for recalled pet food products and discard them promptly. Consumers with questions about recalled pet food may contact Diamond Pet Foods at telephone number 800-442-0402.
- Follow the tips listed on Salmonella from Dry Pet Food and Treats to help prevent an infection with Salmonella from handling dry pet food and treats.
- Washing hands is the most important step to prevent illness. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with water and soap right after handling pet food and treats, and especially before preparing, serving or eating food, drinks or preparing baby bottles. Also, always wash hands right after handling or cleaning up after your pets.
- People who think they might have become ill after contact with dry pet food or with an animal that has eaten dry pet food should consult their health care providers. Infants, older adults, and persons with impaired immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe illness.
- People who think their animal might have become ill after eating dry pet food should consult their veterinarians.
- Consumers can report illnesses associated with pet food in two ways: (1) call the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator in their state, or (2) report electronically through the Safety Reporting Portal. Reports should include product details such as brand name, production code (Example: BDR0105E2XJW), expiration date (Example: Best by 3-APRIL-2013), manufacturer or distributor, and location of purchase. Reports also should include medical information.
- Additional information for pet owners.
- Information for veterinarians.
