The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday that Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC of Sioux City, Iowa has voluntarily recalled two varieties of dog biscuits due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recall affects 4-pound bags of Country Vet Biscuits – Original Meaty Flavor and 4-pound bags of Heartland Harvest Dog Biscuits – Meaty Flavor with Chicken.
The FDA issued the recall notice on Dec. 24, warning that the products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. This pathogen poses significant health risks to both animals and humans who handle contaminated pet food products.
Salmonella infections in dogs can cause serious illness, including symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite, and vomiting. In severe cases, the infection can lead to more serious complications requiring veterinary treatment. Pet owners should monitor their animals closely for signs of illness if they have fed their dogs the recalled products.
The health risks extend beyond pets to their human caregivers. People who handle contaminated pet food can become infected with Salmonella, particularly if they do not wash their hands thoroughly after contact. Human Salmonella infections typically cause gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever that can last several days. Young children, elderly individuals, and people with compromised immune systems face higher risks of severe illness.
The recall represents part of the FDA's ongoing efforts to monitor pet food safety and protect both animal and human health. The agency regularly inspects pet food manufacturing facilities and investigates reports of contamination to prevent widespread illness outbreaks.
Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC initiated the voluntary recall after discovering the potential contamination issue. The company has not yet disclosed how the contamination was discovered or whether any illnesses have been reported in connection with the products.
Pet owners who have purchased the affected products should immediately stop feeding them to their dogs and dispose of the biscuits safely. The FDA recommends double-bagging the products before throwing them away to prevent accidental exposure. Consumers should also thoroughly clean and disinfect any bowls, utensils, or surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products.
The recall specifically covers 4-pound bags of both varieties: Country Vet Biscuits – Original Meaty Flavor and Heartland Harvest Dog Biscuits – Meaty Flavor with Chicken. Pet owners should check their current supply of dog treats and verify product names and package sizes to determine if they have purchased the affected items.
FDA officials emphasize the importance of proper hygiene when handling any pet food products. The agency recommends washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds after handling pet food, treats, or feeding bowls. This precaution helps prevent the spread of harmful bacteria that may be present even in products not subject to recalls.
The Sioux City-based company distributes pet products throughout the region, though the FDA has not yet specified which states or retail locations carried the recalled biscuits. Pet owners should contact the company directly for information about returning unused products or obtaining refunds.
This recall adds to a series of pet food safety incidents that have prompted increased scrutiny of manufacturing practices in the industry. The FDA has strengthened oversight of pet food facilities in recent years, implementing new safety standards and inspection protocols designed to prevent contamination.
Salmonella contamination in pet food can occur at various points in the manufacturing process, from raw ingredient sourcing through processing and packaging. Proper temperature controls, sanitation procedures, and quality testing are essential for preventing bacterial contamination.
Pet owners concerned about their animals' health after consuming the recalled products should contact their veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can help prevent serious complications from Salmonella infections in dogs.
The FDA advises consumers to report any illnesses potentially related to pet food consumption through the agency's Safety Reporting Portal. These reports help officials track contamination incidents and identify patterns that may indicate broader safety issues.
Consumers with questions about the recall should contact Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC directly. The company has not yet announced whether additional products may be affected or provided details about corrective measures being implemented to prevent future contamination.
The recall underscores the importance of purchasing pet food from reputable manufacturers and retailers who follow proper safety protocols. Pet owners should also stay informed about FDA recalls and safety alerts to protect their animals and families from potential health hazards.