Home -> Law Blog Directory -> Health Law Blogs -> Food Safety News

Health Law

: Food Safety News

More Merrick Pet Food Recalled For Salmonella

By Dan Flynn and Suzanna Schreck

Possible Salmonella contamination has prompted Merrick Pet Care Inc. to add 83 additional cases of its "Texas Hold'ems" Beef Filet Squares for Dogs to an ongoing recall.

The first recall of the 10 oz "Beef Filet Squares for Dogs" came last month.  The item number for the recall is 60016, and the lot numbers are 10084TL7 with a best buy date of March 24, 2012; and in the expanded recall, 10127 with a best by date of May 6, 2016.

Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, according to Merrick.  

People handling the treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Merrick said consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle. ??Salmonella symptoms include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers immediately.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans.

If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian immediately.??The Beef Filet Squares (Texas Hold 'Ems) were shipped to distributors and retailers throughout the US. These individuals have been notified and have activated their recall procedures.??The treats are sold in 1O oz plastic bags marked with "Lot # 10127 Best By May 6, 2012" on the top of the bag and on a sticker applied to the bottom.??No illnesses have been reported to date for either lot of product. A sample tested positive for Salmonella.??

Consumers who have purchased 10 ounce packages of "Texas Hold'ems" are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387 M-F 8:00 - 5:00 CDT.

Full post as published by Food Safety News on August 06, 2010 (boomark / email).