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Chicken jerky treat lab analysis released in new FDA report

FDA spokeswoman says consumer complaints of pet illnesses, death now top 1,800

The US Food and Drug Administration issued the findings of a new report about complaints of pets suffering Fanconi syndrome-like symptoms or dying after consuming chicken jerky treats imported from China.

FDA collected and tested nearly 300 jerky treat samples in the US from April 2007 through June 2012, testing for bacterial contamination, mold, chemicals and heavy metals. Although the treats were found to have some adverse effects, FDA's report with laboratory findings did not indicate that further regulatory action was needed. However, FDA figures show the number of complaints of animal illnesses or deaths blamed on the treats is now at more than 1,800, according to FDA spokeswoman, Tamara Ward.

“This does not represent all testing that has and is being conducted by FDA,” Ward said. “Additional testing is currently being conducted through other avenues.”

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