Do Not Feed to Pets: Several Dog, Cat Foods Recalled Over Bacteria Risk

Recalls Due to Salmonella Contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued recalls for specific dog and cat foods produced by Raw Bistro Pet Fare and Foodynamics due to possible contamination with Salmonella bacteria, a harmful pathogen that can cause illness in both animals and their owners.

Raw Bistro Pet Fare Recall

Raw Bistro Pet Fare of Cannon Falls, Minnesota, has recalled two sizes of its frozen beef dog food products. The affected items include the “Raw Bistro Dog Fare Grass-Fed Beef Entrée, Frozen” in 3-pound bags and the “Raw Bistro Dog Fare Grass-Fed Beef Entrée, Bulk, Frozen” in 18-pound cases. Both products were shipped to customers and select distributors across California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota between September 1st and 17th.

The contamination was discovered through FDA testing of product samples, leading the company to voluntarily issue this recall. The best-by date for these recalled items is August 27, 2026.

Foodynamics Recall

Another company, Foodynamics, has issued a voluntary recall on several varieties of freeze-dried pet treats under the brands “Raw Dog Barkery,” “BellePepper Cats,” “Kanu Pets,” and “What’s In the Bowl.” The recalled products were shipped from Wisconsin to retailers in Wisconsin, New York, and Florida. Specific items include:

• “Raw Dog Barkery” (two 16-ounce packages with a March 5, 2025, use-by date)
• “What’s In The Bowl” (three packages—two 3-ounce and one 16-ounce—with a March 5, 2027, use-by date, sold in Delafield, Wisconsin)
• “BellePepper Cats” (two 3-ounce packaged plastic bags labeled “Freeze Dried Chicken Heart Slices” with a March 16, 2027, use-by date, sold in New York)

No illnesses have been reported as of yet in connection with either recall. The use-by dates for some recalled products may also include retail samples that need to be discarded.

Health Risks and Owner Instructions

Pet owners are advised to throw out the recalled pet foods immediately, ensuring they do not donate or sell them. This helps prevent exposure risks to children, pets, and wildlife. The FDA recommends that pet owners also clean food bowls, cups, and storage containers thoroughly.

For human health, people handling these products should wash their hands after use, as well as any utensils and surfaces that come into contact with the recalled foods or treats. These safety measures are crucial in preventing the spread of Salmonella bacteria.

Industry Context and Future Implications

The recall highlights ongoing challenges within the pet food industry regarding contamination risks. According to Dr. Karen Terio, a veterinarian at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, “Pet owners should be aware that these recalls are not uncommon but should always remain vigilant about the products they purchase for their pets.” She advises consumers to check the FDA’s website regularly for updates on pet food recalls and to follow manufacturers’ instructions carefully.

While no illnesses have been reported in this instance, experts warn that Salmonella can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

The FDA continues to monitor these cases closely and urges the public to report any suspected incidents of illness linked to the recalled products.

The recall underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership practices and emphasizes the need for regular updates from manufacturers and regulatory bodies like the FDA to ensure public safety. As the pet industry grows, so too do these challenges, making it essential for both consumers and producers to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect pets and their owners.