The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to pet owners regarding certain lots of Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, a brand specializing in raw pet food. FDA testing of specific batches of Darwin’s Natural Pet Products revealed the presence of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, posing a potential health risk to both pets and humans. This alert is crucial for pet owners who prioritize natural and raw diets, especially those who rely on Darwin’s Natural Pet Products for their furry companions.
Critical Findings: Contamination in Darwin’s Natural Pet Products
Six FDA samples from Darwin’s Natural Pet Products were analyzed, and alarming results emerged. Five samples tested positive for Salmonella, and one of these five also contained Listeria monocytogenes (L. mono). The affected products are all from the Darwin’s Natural Selections line, specifically the Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe, formulated for both cats and dogs. These contaminated products are packaged frozen in 2-pound quantities and distributed by Arrow Reliance, Inc.
It is imperative to note that these specific lot numbers of Darwin’s Natural Pet Products should not be fed to pets under any circumstances.
Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, known for its subscription-based online sales model, distributes these raw pet food products directly to consumers. Despite the FDA’s recommendation for a recall of the six implicated lots, Arrow Reliance, Inc. has, to date, not initiated a recall. This lack of action from the company intensifies the FDA’s warning, urging pet owners to be extra vigilant and proactively check their freezers for potentially contaminated Darwin’s Natural Pet Products.
If you possess any of the Darwin’s Natural Pet Products listed below with the matching lot numbers, the FDA advises immediate disposal in a secure container, preventing access by pets, children, or wildlife. Do not donate these products.
Furthermore, thorough cleaning and disinfection are essential. Any pet supplies and surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated food or your pet should be meticulously cleaned and disinfected to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Both Salmonella and L. mono are zoonotic pathogens, meaning they can cause illness in both animals and humans. If you or your family members experience symptoms of Salmonella or L. mono infection, seek medical attention immediately. Similarly, if your pet exhibits symptoms, consult your veterinarian without delay.
Identify Potentially Harmful Darwin’s Natural Pet Products
The affected Darwin’s Natural Pet Products are packaged in 2-pound white and clear plastic containers, divided into four units. The dog food packaging is distinguished by blue labeling, while the cat food features blue and green labels. The crucial lot codes are printed on the front of the lower left unit of each package.
Here’s a detailed list of the Darwin’s Natural Pet Products varieties and lot codes to check:
- Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Cats
- Lot No: 10832 MFG. Date: Jul 25, 2024
- Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Cats
- Lot No: 10856 MFG. Date: Aug 04, 2024
- Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Cats
- Lot No: 10890 MFG. Date: Aug 13, 2024
- Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Dogs
- Lot No: 10828 MFG. Date: Jul 24, 2024
- Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Dogs
- Lot No: 10844 MFG. Date: Jul 30, 2024
- Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Dogs
- Lot No: 10887 MFG. Date: Aug 12, 2024
Immediate Actions for Pet Owners
If you have purchased any Darwin’s Natural Pet Products matching the product names and lot codes listed above, stop feeding it to your pets immediately. Discard the food safely in a sealed container to prevent access by animals or humans. Do not attempt to donate the contaminated food.
Locate the lot code on the front of the lower left section of the packaging. If you are unsure about the lot code or have discarded the packaging, it’s safest to discard the food as a precautionary measure.
If you have handled the recalled Darwin’s Natural Pet Products or if it has been present in your home, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean and disinfect all pet-related items and surfaces. This includes food bowls, storage containers, utensils, food preparation areas, pet bedding, litter boxes, toys, floors, and any other surfaces that may have come into contact with the food or your pet. Don’t forget to clean your refrigerator and freezer where the food was stored. Promptly clean up pet feces, particularly in areas accessible to people or other animals. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling the pet food or cleaning potentially contaminated items.
Understanding Salmonella and Its Dangers
Salmonella is a bacterium that can trigger illness, and in severe cases, death in both humans and animals. Vulnerable populations, such as young pets, senior animals, and those with compromised immune systems, are particularly at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Salmonella infection in humans typically manifests as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. While most individuals recover without treatment, severe cases may require hospitalization to manage dehydration and prevent the infection from spreading beyond the intestines. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.
In pets, Salmonella infection may not always present obvious symptoms. However, potential signs include vomiting, diarrhea (possibly bloody), fever, reduced appetite, and lethargy. If your pet exhibits these symptoms, immediate veterinary consultation is essential. Even asymptomatic pets can shed Salmonella bacteria in their feces, posing a risk of transmission.
Understanding Listeria monocytogenes and Its Risks
Listeria monocytogenes (L. mono) is another bacterium that poses serious health risks to humans and animals, especially pregnant individuals, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immunity. The CDC highlights that listeriosis in humans can present a wide range of symptoms, including headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, alongside fever and muscle aches.
Pregnant women often experience milder, flu-like symptoms; however, L. mono infection during pregnancy can lead to severe complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, or life-threatening infections in newborns. High-risk groups, including pregnant women, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, are particularly susceptible to severe listeriosis. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
While less common in pets, L. mono infections can occur. Symptoms in pets can range from mild diarrhea to severe conditions including anorexia, fever, neurological signs, respiratory issues, pregnancy loss, depression, shock, and even death. Similar to Salmonella, pets can carry and shed L. mono in their feces and saliva without showing any signs of illness, contributing to environmental contamination.
FDA’s Concern Regarding Salmonella and L. mono in Pet Food
The FDA’s concern over Salmonella and L. mono contamination in pet food, particularly in brands like Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, stems from the significant public health implications. Contaminated pet food can directly harm pets and indirectly affect human health through zoonotic transmission. Pets can become ill from these bacteria and act as carriers, shedding them and exposing their human companions even when appearing healthy. The FDA has documented cases of human and animal illnesses linked to Salmonella-contaminated pet food. While documented cases of human L. mono infection from pet food are less common, the risk of environmental contamination and potential transmission remains a serious concern.
The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act mandates that pet food, like human food, must be safe, produced hygienically, free from harmful substances, and accurately labeled. It’s crucial to understand that freezing or refrigeration does not eliminate Salmonella or L. mono.
Reporting Pet Illnesses and Product Concerns
If you suspect your pet has become ill after consuming contaminated Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, contact your veterinarian immediately. Veterinarians can utilize the Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN Network) for testing, especially if the pet resides in a household with a human Salmonella or L. mono case.
Consumers are encouraged to report any complaints regarding pet food products electronically via the FDA’s Safety Reporting Portal. You can also utilize the SmartHub – Safety Intake Portal on the FDA website for assistance with submitting a report.
Stay Informed
For further information and updates on pet food safety and recalls, please refer to the FDA website and other reputable sources on pet health. Staying informed is the best way to protect your pets and family.
