The recall was initiated after the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture Resources collected a sample of the product following a customer complaint on December 12, 2024, about animal illness. Testing conducted by the Massachusetts State Public Health Laboratory confirmed Salmonella contamination. On January 3, 2025, the FDA notified Blue Ridge Beef of the positive test result.
The affected products were distributed between July 18, 2024, and July 26, 2024, primarily in retail stores across Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. The Kitten Mix is packaged in clear plastic chubs.
Blue Ridge Puppy Mix product recalled in December
On December 2, Blue Ridge Beef announced that 2-pound packages of its Puppy Mix product were being recalled due to Salmonella contamination. The FDA noted the problem was discovered when a customer's litter of puppies became ill and reported the issue to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS). That product was distributed August 6 to August 23 to Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York.
Salmonella contamination poses risks to both pets and humans. Salmonella can cause serious illness in pets, including symptoms like diarrhea, fever, vomiting and lethargy. Some infected pets may appear healthy but can still transmit the bacteria to humans or other animals. For humans, handling the contaminated product can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramping. In rare cases, it may cause more severe health conditions like arterial infections or arthritis.
Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to stop using it immediately and dispose of it carefully. Those who have handled the product or surfaces exposed to it should wash their hands thoroughly. If pets or humans show symptoms of illness after exposure, they should contact a veterinarian or healthcare provider.
For more information or questions about the recall, contact Blue Ridge Beef directly at [email protected] or 704-873-2072.
Adapted from a press release.
