A raw dog food company is voluntarily recalling select sardine-based foods because officials say it may have the potential to cause botulism, a deadly disease caused by a toxin-producing bacterium known as Clostridium botulinum.
What Sparked This Recall
OC Raw Dog, LLC was notified by the Minnesota Department of Food and Agriculture after they collected samples of their Freeze Dried Sardines. They found the food contained un-eviscerated or intact un-gutted fish that measure 6 to 6.5 inches, which is greater than FDA guidelines of 5-inches.
According to the FDA, salt-cured, dried, or fermented un-eviscerated (un-gutted) fish larger than 5 inches have been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning between 1981 and 1987, and again in 1991.
It’s important to note that OC Raw Dog Freeze Dried Sardines have not tested positive for Clostridium botulinum and, to date, there haven’t been any reported illnesses in any connection with the sardines.
Photos Via: FDA
A Message From The Company
“We are dedicated to producing a safe and quality product. Because safety and quality is our priority we are conducting this voluntarily recall, we will be changing our sardine suppliers to insure the new Sardines are less than 5 inches. Or if larger, the fish will be eviscerated. We will continue to only use ingredients and products that are USDA certified and inspected for Human Consumption.”
What’s Recalled
Pet parents who feed OC Raw Dog Freeze Dried Sardines should look for the following:
- Size: 3.2 oz bag
- UPC Code: 095225853043
The affected food was sold in independent pet specialty stores in the following seven states:
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
Feed This Food?
If you feed the recalled food, you are urged to stop using it immediately and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the company at 1-844-215-DOGS Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm PST.
A Little About Clostridium Botulinum
Clostridium botulinum can cause potentially deadly toxicity in both pets and humans. Common symptoms may include dizziness, blurred or double vision, trouble speaking, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, abdominal distension, and constipation. Animals or humans experiencing these symptoms are urged to seek immediate medical attention.
