Contamination Findings and Health Risks
Laboratory testing conducted by the FDA identified multiple dangerous pathogens in samples of Darwin's raw dog food products. The contaminated products were found to contain:
- E. coli O157:H7
- Salmonella
- Listeria monocytogenes
These bacterial contaminants pose serious health risks to both animals and humans who may come into contact with the affected products.
Affected Product Information
The contaminated products are specifically identified by the following lot numbers:
- Lot 10662 (beef formulation)
- Lot 10683 (chicken formulation)
- Lot 10638 (duck formulation)
These products are distributed through online subscription services and are sold in frozen form without expiration dates.
Safe Handling and Disposal Guidelines
When dealing with potentially contaminated raw dog food, proper handling and disposal procedures are crucial to prevent the spread of pathogens:
- Do not feed the affected products to pets
- Avoid donating or redistributing the food
- Dispose of products securely to prevent access by pets or wildlife
- Clean and disinfect all surfaces that contacted the food
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling pet food or cleaning contaminated areas
Cross-Contamination Prevention
Since these products are sold frozen, it's important to note that freezing does not kill harmful bacteria. Pet owners should:
- Use separate utensils for pet food preparation
- Clean and sanitize all food preparation surfaces
- Store pet food separately from human food
- Wash hands immediately after handling raw pet food
Company Response and Current Status
Despite FDA recommendations for voluntary recalls, Arrow Reliance, Inc., the manufacturer of Darwin's Natural Pet Products, has not issued formal recalls for the affected lots. The company has also not provided sufficient evidence that contaminated products have been removed from the market or household freezers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health risks of feeding Darwin's Natural Pet Products raw dog food to my pet?
The contaminated food can cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and lethargy in pets. In humans, contact with these pathogens can lead to serious infections, with children being particularly vulnerable to complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome.
How can I check if my Darwin's pet food is contaminated?
Check your product packaging for the specific lot numbers (10662 for beef, 10683 for chicken, 10638 for duck). These lots have been identified in the FDA advisory. Remember that the products are sold frozen without expiration dates through online subscription services.
What should I do if I have contaminated Darwin's dog food?
Securely dispose of any affected products in a way that prevents access by pets or wildlife. Clean and disinfect all surfaces and utensils that may have contacted the contaminated food. Freezing does not kill the bacteria, so proper disposal and thorough cleaning are essential.
This ongoing situation serves as an important reminder about the critical nature of pet food safety and the need for vigilance in protecting both our pets and human family members from foodborne pathogens. Pet owners should stay informed about pet food safety notices and always follow proper handling procedures for raw pet food products.
