Nature’s Variety Pet Food Recall
Nature’s Variety is recalling pet food based on potential salmonella risk both to animals who ate the food and to humans who handled it. Consumers who bought the affected food can return the packaging or proof of purchase to the store for a full refund or exchange.
Nature’s Variety has issued a voluntary recall for its Instinct Raw Chicken Formula Bites and Patties, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Nature’s Variety became aware of the issue after receiving notification from the FDA that a routine surveillance sample of seven-pound Instinct Raw Chicken Bites for dogs tested positive for salmonella.
The affected products are limited to the Instinct Raw Chicken Formula Frozen Diets packaged in the following forms:
- UPC# 769949611431 – Instinct Raw Chicken Formula Bites for Dogs 4 lb.; Best By 04/27/16
- UPC# 769949611448 – Instinct Raw Chicken Formula Bites for Dogs 7 lb.; Best By 04/27/16
- UPC# 769949611486 – Instinct Raw Chicken Formula Patties for Dogs 6 lb.; Best By 04/27/16
The “Best By” date is located on the back of the package below the seal.
Nature’s Variety products are sold in the US and Canada, as well as online. The affected products were sold in many pet stores, including major chains such as Petco and PetSmart.
In a statement, Nature’s Variety added, “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.”
Consumers are urged to monitor their dog’s health if they fed the recalled food to their pet. Dogs may become lethargic and have diarrhea, fever or start vomiting. Owners should call a veterinarian if their pets show symptoms, the FDA said.
For people, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever are all signs of an infection that requires medical treatment.
While no illnesses have been reported to date, Nature’s Variety urges consumers to follow the Simple Handling Tips published on the dog food package when disposing of the affected product.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can call 888-519-7387 or email Nature’s Variety directly.