Listeria, Salmonella Concerns Prompt Pet Food Warning and Recall

FDA warns against Answers brand pet food due to potential listeria and salmonella contamination, raising concerns for pet and human health.

At a Glance

FDA issued a warning about Answers brand pet food contaminated with Listeria and Salmonella
Answers Pet Food has recalled multiple pet food products.
Contaminated pet food poses risks to both pets and humans
Consumers advised to dispose of affected products securely and clean all related surfaces

FDA Issues Warning on Contaminated Pet Food

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a critical warning to pet owners regarding potential listeria and salmonella contamination in Answers brand pet food. This alert comes after the agency received complaints of dog illnesses and subsequently tested unopened retail samples. No illnesses have been confirmed at this point. However, the products, sold nationwide and online, have raised significant concerns about pet and human health safety.

The FDA reported in its September 23 warning that it recommended Answers Pet Food issue a recall. However, no recall had been announced yet.

On Tuesday, September 24, however, the FDA reported that Answers Pet Food issued a voluntary recall of several products. These include ANSWERS Pet Food Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs, ANSWERS Pet Food Straight Beef Formula for Dogs, and ANSWERS Pet Food Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs.

The best-by dates for the affected products extend into 2026, meaning many consumers may still have these items in their homes.

Health Risks and Precautions

The contamination poses health risks to both pets and humans. Listeria infections can cause life-threatening symptoms, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems. Symptoms may include vomiting, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Salmonella infections can lead to diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, with severe cases requiring hospitalization. Salmonella is uncommon in dogs and cats but not unheard of, and the animals can be carriers.

Pet owners who have purchased Answers brand pet food are strongly advised to take immediate action. Customers “are advised to throw it away in a secure container. Do not feed it to your pets. Do not donate the food,” stated the initial FDA warning. Additionally, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean and disinfect all pet supplies and surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated food to prevent cross-contamination.

Consumer Action and Vigilance

In light of this situation, it’s important for pet owners to remain vigilant about the food they provide to their animals. Regularly checking for FDA advisories and product recalls is crucial for maintaining pet health and safety. Consumers should also be aware that handling contaminated pet food can lead to human illness through direct contact or cross-contamination of food preparation areas and utensils.

In light of the warning and recall, the priority remains clear: protect our pets and ourselves from these dangerous contaminants. Stay informed, dispose of any potentially affected products, and maintain strict hygiene practices when handling pet food to help protect all family members, both two-legged and four-legged.