A significant recall has been issued by Blue Ridge Beef for its Natural Mix dog food, affecting thousands of pounds of product due to potential Salmonella contamination. On January 31, 2025, the company announced the recall of 5,700 pounds of its two-pound logs packaged under the lot number N25/12/31 and UPC 854298001054.
The discovery of Salmonella came after samples of the product were collected on January 8, 2025, by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. Testing confirmed the presence of the bacteria, and the FDA notified Blue Ridge Beef of the positive test result on January 27, 2025.
Salmonella poses health risks to both pets and humans. Pets consuming the contaminated product may experience lethargy, diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, vomiting, decreased appetite, and abdominal pain. "Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting," remarked Blue Ridge Beef.
For humans, symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. "Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms," the company noted.
The recall stretches across eight U.S. states—Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Tennessee, and Rhode Island—where the affected product was sold from January 3 to January 24, 2025. Consumers are strongly urged to return the product to the place of purchase or dispose of it safely to prevent access by children, pets, or wildlife. The FDA emphasized, "Do not sell or donate the recalled products. Do not feed the recalled product to pets or any other animals. Wash and sanitize pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers, and always wash your hands after handling the recalled food or any utensils associated with it."
Reports from the field have indicated several cases of pet illnesses linked to this product, exacerbated by the previous recall of 9,600 pounds of Puppy Mix just one month prior for similar Salmonella concerns. Consumers who notice symptoms after handling the contaminated product or if their pets exhibit signs of illness are advised to seek medical attention immediately.
Individuals experiencing direct symptomatology from handling the recalled food, especially young children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems, should consult healthcare providers for appropriate diagnostics and treatment.
This latest incident highlights the importance of monitoring pet food recalls and ensuring proper food safety practices. For those who have purchased the affected Blue Ridge Beef Natural Mix, contacting the company directly through their email at [email protected] or their customer service line at 704-873-2072 is recommended for more information.