FDA Announces Recall of Dog Treats in 19 U.S. States Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an alert regarding the voluntary recall of a specific batch of dog treats manufactured by Carolina Prime Pet, Inc., based in Lenoir, North Carolina.

This recall affects 400 bags of 16-ounce packages of a product named "Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips" due to potential contamination with Salmonella. Although no illnesses related to the product have been reported to date, the company has decided to implement this measure as a precaution to protect the health of consumers and their pets.

The states affected by this recall include Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Additionally, the treats were also available for purchase through the company’s official online store, www.hollywoodfeed.com, expanding the potential reach of the issue.

Consumers can identify the affected product by looking for lot number 20051324L2 and an expiration date marked as 11/13/25, printed on the back of the packaging, which features a distinctive purple and black design. The potential contamination was discovered during a routine quality inspection conducted by an external laboratory, which found Salmonella in a related batch of the same product that had not reached the market. Despite no evidence of contamination in other batches, the company chose to act immediately to prevent possible health risks.

Salmonella Risks

Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious health problems in both animals and humans. In pets, symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea that may sometimes contain blood, vomiting, fever, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. In some cases, infected animals may show no visible symptoms but can act as carriers of the bacteria, spreading it to other animals or even to people in the household.

For humans, Salmonella infection can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Individuals with weakened immune systems, young children, and the elderly are more susceptible to severe symptoms. It is crucial for pet owners to handle pet food and treats with care, washing their hands after handling these products and avoiding direct contact with pet feces.

Precautionary Measures

The FDA recommends that consumers who have purchased the affected product stop using it immediately and dispose of it safely. Additionally, it is advised to clean and disinfect any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled treats to prevent possible cross-contamination. Consumers with questions or who wish to obtain a refund can contact Carolina Prime Pet, Inc. directly.

This recall highlights the importance of continuous vigilance and quality inspections within the pet food industry, as well as the need for consumers to stay informed and take preventive measures to ensure the health and safety of their companion animals.