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Federal health officials are recalling a dog food product that has poisoned more than two dozen pets that have died and left several more sick.
The FDA has issued an alert to pet owners and veterinary professionals regarding certain batches of Sportmix food products that may contain lethal levels of aflatoxin, which can develop on corn and grains and poison animals.
According to the FDA, on Wednesday, December 30, Midwestern Pet Food, Inc. announced a recall of certain products after the FDA was alerted to reports of at least 28 dogs who died and eight who became ill from consuming the recalled items. .
During testing, the recalled items were found to contain very high levels of aflatoxin, a toxin produced by the mold Aspergillus flavus.
Symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning include laziness, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice, or diarrhea. In the most severe cases, the disease can be fatal as pets sometimes suffer long-term liver damage without showing symptoms.
“Pets are very susceptible to aflatoxin poisoning because, unlike people who eat a varied diet, animals generally eat the same food continuously over long periods of time,” the FDA noted. “If an animal’s food contains aflatoxin, the toxin could build up in the animal’s system as it continues to eat the same food.
Recalled items:
- Sportmix Energy Plus, 50 lb bag;
- Sportmix Energy Plus, 44 lb bag;
- Sportmix Premium High Energy, 50 lb bag;
- Sportmix Premium High Energy 44-pound bag;
- Sportmix Original Cat, 31 lb bag;
- Sportmix Original Cat, 15 lb bag.
The FDA has warned that the recalled products may still be on pet owners’ shelves or in stores. The recalled feed mixes have been distributed to online retailers and stores nationwide.
“If your pet exhibits symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning, contact a veterinarian immediately,” health officials noted. “Even animals without symptoms may have suffered liver damage, so you can contact your veterinarian if your dog has eaten any of the recalled products while providing him with a complete feeding history.”
“There is no evidence to suggest that pet owners who handle products containing aflatoxin are at risk for aflatoxin poisoning,” the FDA added. “However, pet owners should always wash their hands after handling pet food.”
The FDA noted that the investigation is ongoing and the scope of the recall may be broadened and the death toll may rise as new information becomes available. Vets who suspect an aflatoxin poison have been urged to contact the FDA while the case continues.
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