The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for several dog food products due to contamination with harmful bacteria, Newsweek reports.
The affected products, manufactured by Answers Pet Food, a company based in Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, were found to contain Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes (L. mono), posing health risks to both pets and humans.
The recalled items include beef and chicken formulas sold in 4-pound cartons across the US The specific products under recall are:
- Answers Pet Food Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs, UPC 856554002102, best-by date May 6, 2026.
- Answers Pet Food Raw Beef Straight Formula for Dogs, UPC 856554002072, best-by date January 31, 2026.
- Answers Pet Food Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs, UPC 856554002065, best-by dates January 2, 2026, and March 11, 2026.
The FDA tested unopened samples of these products following reports of illness in three dogs that consumed the food. Although no confirmed illnesses have been linked to the specific batches, the FDA advises pet owners to safely dispose of the affected products.
“[The food should be] thrown out or destroyed in a way that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access it,” said the agency in the recall notice.
Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious health issues in both animals and humans. Pets infected with Salmonella may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and decreased activity. They can also spread the bacteria through their feces, even if they appear healthy. For humans, handling contaminated pet food without proper hygiene can lead to infections, with symptoms including nausea, diarrhea, and fever.
The FDA also noted that Listeria monocytogenes infections are less common in pets but can result in diarrhea, fever, and other severe complications. In humans, L. mono poses a particular threat to pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Consumers are urged to clean and disinfect any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled food. If pets show signs of illness, owners are advised to consult a veterinarian promptly.
Newsweek has reached out to Answers Pet Food for comment. No recall classification has been established for these products at this time.
