- Announcement Date: December 2, 2024
- FDA Publish Date: December 2, 2024
- Company: Blue Ridge Beef
- Product: Puppy Mix (2 lb log)
- Reason: Salmonella contamination
- Action Required: Stop using the product immediately. Check lot numbers and UPC on packaging (details below). Return to the place of purchase or safely discard.
Stick around for more details on this recall and why it’s important to stay vigilant. Shall we dive in?
What happened?
Blue Ridge Beef, based in Statesville, NC, is recalling 960 lbs of their Puppy Mix after FDA testing confirmed Salmonella contamination. The recall affects 2 lb logs marked with lot numbers 08/06/N25 and 08/16/N25 and UPC 854298001696. The lot numbers are stamped on the clips at the ends of the packaging.
Product Details
Brand | Product | Size | Upc | Lot Numbers |
Blue Ridge Beef | Puppy Mix | 2 lb log | 854298001696 | 08/06/N25 08/16/N25 |
- Distribution Dates: August 6–23, 2024
- States Impacted: Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York
The contamination was discovered after a customer’s litter of puppies became ill, prompting lab tests that confirmed Salmonella. The FDA later verified the contamination through additional testing.
What caused the issue?
The recall was prompted by Salmonella, a bacterium that poses risks to both pets and humans:
- Health Risks to Humans:
- Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), abdominal cramping, and fever.
- Severe Cases: Potential for arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, and urinary tract issues.
- Health Risks to Pets:
- Symptoms: Lethargy, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.
If your pet shows these symptoms after consuming the affected product, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Here’s what you should do
To ensure safety for both you and your pet:
- Check lot numbers 08/06/N25 and 08/16/N25 on the packaging clips.
- Return the product to the place of purchase or safely dispose of it (away from children, pets, and wildlife).
- Wash and sanitize any bowls, utensils, or surfaces exposed to the product.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling pet food.
- For more information, contact Blue Ridge Beef at 704-873-2072 or [email protected].
Behind the brand
Blue Ridge Beef is known for its raw pet food offerings and has built a solid reputation in the pet nutrition market. However, this recent recall isn’t an isolated incident. Earlier this year, in January 2024, the FDA announced recalls of Blue Ridge Beef’s Kitten Grind, Kitten Mix, and Puppy Mix due to potential contamination with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. These repeated issues emphasize the critical need for more stringent safety measures and robust quality control protocols in the raw pet food industry.
This recall reflects a broader industry trend, as Salmonella-related recalls have been on the rise. Recent examples include Baloian Farms Cucumbers, Russ David Wholesale products, SunFed Cucumbers, and Kirkland’s Signature Eggs, among others. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in maintaining food safety across various industries, reinforcing the importance of rigorous testing and preventive measures.
“Handling a recall with clarity and efficiency turns a potential crisis into a chance to showcase your brand’s dedication to quality and consumer well-being.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’ CEO.
Ensuring safe eats
This recall serves as a wake-up call for manufacturers, suppliers, and pet owners alike. Foodborne illnesses like Salmonella pose serious risks, not only to our beloved pets but to humans as well. This issue underscores the need for robust testing and quality assurance. Consumers should always double-check product labels and stay informed about recalls.
As a trusted supplier of high-quality ingredients, at Source86 we prioritize safety and transparency in every product. Need advice on sourcing safe ingredients or have questions about food safety? Contact our team today or explore our range of top-tier ingredients. Together, we can ensure every meal—human or pet—is a safe one!
