Smallbatch Pets Inc. of Portland, Oregon is voluntarily recalling two lots of frozen 2 pound chicken blend for dogs and cats, brand name Smallbatch, due to the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, according to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
No pet or consumer illnesses from this product have been reported to date. This recall was initiated after routine testing by FDA of a 2 pound bag of chicken blend, which was collected at a distributor, revealed the presence of Salmonella.
Smallbatch Pets is conducting a voluntary recall of these frozen pet foods. Consumers should also follow the Simple Handling Tips published on the Smallbatch Pets package, when disposing of the affected product.
The potentially affected lots of 2 pound chicken blend were distributed to retail pet food stores in California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington through pet food retailers and distributors. Two hundred and eighty-two cases of this product were sold between the dates of February 1, 2017 and May 5, 2017.
The affected products are sold frozen in 2 pound bags. The products affected by this recall are identified with the following manufacturing codes and the “Best By” date is located on the back of the package.
Lot: D032
UPC: 705105970974
Best by Date: 2/1/2018
Lot: E058
UPC: 705105970974
Best by Date: 2/27/2018
Consumers who have purchased the above lots of Chicken Blend are urged to stop feeding them to their dogs or cats and return product to place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of them immediately.
Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.
Effects of Salmonella on pets and people
Symptoms of infection in people include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If a pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, Smallbatch advises that owners contact a veterinarian.
