The 2018 Kibbles 'n Bits Recall Explained
In February 2018, J.M. Smucker Company initiated a voluntary recall of several wet dog food products, including specific Kibbles 'n Bits varieties. The recall was triggered by the detection of pentobarbital, a euthanasia drug that should never be present in pet food. This contamination was traced to a single supplier and affected only the brand's canned food products.
The recall highlighted important concerns about ingredient sourcing and quality control in pet food manufacturing. While the levels of pentobarbital were deemed "extremely low" and unlikely to cause immediate health issues, the incident led to significant changes in the brand's product lineup.
Current Product Safety and Changes
Following the 2018 recall, Kibbles 'n Bits made several important changes to ensure product safety:
- Discontinued all wet food products involved in the recall
- Focused exclusively on dry dog food varieties
- Implemented stricter supplier verification processes
- Enhanced quality control measures
Current Kibbles 'n Bits dry dog food products have not been subject to any recalls or safety concerns since 2018. The brand now operates under Post Holdings, Inc., maintaining compliance with FDA and AAFCO guidelines.
Understanding Product Safety and Ingredients
Today's Kibbles 'n Bits products contain several key ingredients that warrant attention:
- Corn and soybean meal as primary protein sources
- Animal fat preserved with BHA
- Artificial colors and preservatives
- Added vitamins and minerals
While these ingredients meet basic nutritional requirements, some veterinary experts recommend monitoring dogs for sensitivities, particularly those with specific health conditions or allergies.
Monitoring Your Dog's Food Safety
To ensure your dog's safety when feeding Kibbles 'n Bits or any commercial pet food:
- Check lot numbers against recall databases
- Monitor your dog for any adverse reactions
- Store food properly in a cool, dry place
- Keep packaging for reference
- Subscribe to pet food safety alerts
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the 2018 Kibbles 'n Bits dog food recall involving pentobarbital?
The 2018 recall was initiated due to the detection of pentobarbital, a euthanasia drug, in certain wet dog food products. The contamination was traced to a single supplier and affected only canned food varieties.
Are the current Kibbles 'n Bits dry dog foods affected by the 2018 pentobarbital recall?
No, current Kibbles 'n Bits dry dog foods were not affected by the 2018 recall. The recall only involved wet food products, which have since been discontinued.
How can I check if my Kibbles 'n Bits dog food is part of the recall or safe to feed?
Since the recall only affected wet food products that are no longer manufactured, current dry food products are safe. However, you can verify product safety by checking the FDA website or contacting the manufacturer directly with your product's lot number.
What are the main controversial ingredients in Kibbles 'n Bits dog food to be aware of?
The main controversial ingredients include corn as a primary ingredient, artificial preservatives (BHA), artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6), and animal by-product meals. While FDA-approved, some pet owners prefer to avoid these ingredients.
Is Kibbles 'n Bits dog food nutritionally adequate and safe for dogs with allergies or sensitivities?
While Kibbles 'n Bits meets AAFCO nutritional standards, it may not be suitable for dogs with specific allergies or sensitivities due to its ingredients. Consult with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has known food sensitivities or health conditions.
