The United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) published the results of a nationwide survey on microbiological risks associated with raw pet food. FSA defined raw pet food as products made from unprocessed or uncooked meat, offal and raw bone. The agency noted that some products, including dried pet treats and chews, may also contain raw meat ingredients that are not always obvious to consumers.
Between March 2023 and February 2024, the FSA collected 380 raw dog and cat food products from retail stores and online platforms. Laboratory testing was carried out by the UK Health Security Agency.
According to the survey findings:
- 35% of products contained harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, Campylobacter and E. coli, which can cause illness in people.
- 29% failed to meet United Kingdom legal safety standards.
The FSA reported that where issues were identified, it worked with local authorities to address them. The agency said the publication of the findings is intended to remind pet owners that simple hygiene practices when storing, defrosting, handling and preparing raw pet food can reduce the risk of illness.
“Raw pet food products can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever,” Gauri Godbole, deputy director of gastrointestinal infections, food safety and one health at the UK Health Security Agency, said in a public bulletin.
Public health and antimicrobial resistance concerns
The FSA emphasized that raw pet food may contain bacteria resistant to antibiotics. The agency noted that antimicrobial resistant bacteria could spread through contact with the pet food or the pet itself, such as dog licking a person after consuming raw pet food. In some cases, pets may carry infections without showing symptoms yet pass those bacteria to owners.
"We know that many pet owners choose raw pet food. This survey shows that these products can pose risks to human and animal health,” Rick Mumford, interim chief scientific adviser for the FSA, said in a public bulletin. “Good hygiene practices and safe handling can help reduce the risks to you and your family. Follow the same hygiene principles you would when preparing food for the humans in your life; washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, cleaning all surfaces, and storing and defrosting pet food and treats away from human food. Detailed information on the safe handling of raw pet food can be found on the FSA’s dedicated raw pet food guidance page.”
Regulatory implications for pet food industry
The FSA said strict rules are in place for pet food regulation in the United Kingdom and that it is working with local authorities to remind feed businesses of their responsibilities in ensuring that pet food is safe. The agency also said it will continue working across government, with manufacturers, retailers and animal health professionals to ensure effective regulation of raw pet food.
Consumer demand for raw diets continues growing, and the survey data may prompt renewed attention to sourcing, hazard analysis, environmental monitoring and consumer communication around safe handling practices. The survey results reinforce the agency’s message: safe handling remains a critical control point for reducing public health risks associated with raw pet food products.
