In recent months, Blue Ridge Beef has issued multiple recalls of its pet food products due to contamination concerns, primarily involving Salmonella bacteria. These recalls have affected various products and distribution regions, posing health risks to both pets and their owners.January 31, 2025: Natural Mix RecallOn January 31, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Blue Ridge Beef recalled 5,700 pounds of its 2-pound log Natural Mix (Lot # N25/12/31; UPC# 854298001054) after samples tested positive for Salmonella. The contaminated products were distributed between January 3-4, 2025, and sold in retail stores across Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, and Rhode Island. Early January 2025: Kitten Mix RecallIn early January 2025, Blue Ridge Beef recalled 1,350 pounds of its 2-pound Kitten Mix logs following a customer complaint about animal illness. Testing revealed Salmonella contamination in the product. The recall affected products distributed in multiple states. December 2, 2024: Puppy Mix RecallOn December 2, 2024, the company recalled 2-pound packages of its Puppy Mix product due to Salmonella contamination. This action was taken after a customer’s litter of puppies became ill, leading to testing that confirmed the presence of the bacteria. The affected products were distributed in Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. Health Risks Associated with SalmonellaSalmonella contamination poses significant health risks to both pets and humans. In pets, symptoms may include lethargy, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, and vomiting. Some pets may exhibit decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. Humans handling contaminated pet food can also become infected, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after contact. Symptoms in humans include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. In severe cases, Salmonella infection can lead to more serious conditions. Recommendations for Pet OwnersIf you have purchased any of the recalled products:Do not feed them to your pets.Dispose of the products in a secure manner to prevent access by children, pets, or wildlife.Clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the recalled products.Monitor your pets for any signs of illness and consult a veterinarian if symptoms appear.For more information or questions about the recall, you can contact Blue Ridge Beef directly at [email protected] or 704-873-2072. Staying informed about pet food recalls is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of your pets. Regularly check for updates from reputable sources such as the FDA or trusted news outlets.
